"The test found that I had elevated levels of Lactobacillaceae and low levels of Bifidobacterium that are directly linked to IBS symptoms, the personalised plan helped me to rebalance my gut bacteria levels, within 2 weeks there was a significant improvement in my bloating and bowel movements, and after 6 weeks I felt like a different person."
To start, could you tell us a bit about when you first started experiencing symptoms and what they were like?
Jon: Of course. I first noticed the symptoms of IBS about five years ago when I was in my mid 20s. I was having frequent bloating, abdominal pain, and irregular bowel movements—sometimes constipation, other times diarrhoea. It was all very intermittent at first, before it then started to occur nearly every day. At first, I thought it was just something that came with getting older. But over time, it started to really affect my day-to-day life.
Did you ever try to figure out what was causing these symptoms?
Jon: I did try, but it was difficult as there didn't seem to be any patterns. I couldn’t pinpoint any specific food or trigger. I tried keeping a food diary, eliminating certain foods like dairy and gluten, and even tried low FODMAP diets, but nothing really seemed to work consistently.
What other methods did you try to manage your IBS before you decided to try gut microbiome testing?
Jon: I tried a lot of things over the years—a mixture of over the counter and prescription medicines like buscopan, Mebeverine, laxatives, peppermint oil fibre supplements, and even probiotics. I was very much aware that taking medicine was doing nothing to target the actual cause of my symptoms, instead it was just putting a plaster over the problem. The only thing that came close to improving my symptoms was exercise, but it helped only slightly.
So, what made you decide to turn to gut microbiome testing? What was the tipping point?
Jon: In all honesty, I've probably spent hours of research trying to get to the bottom of my symptoms and trying different things. What kept coming up in my research was how the gut microbiome plays a huge part in developing IBS and how it differs in person to person. I've tried low FODMAP and Elimination diets but they didn't help help with my symptoms, the diet that was specifically made for me to improve my gut microbiome did help my symptoms.
What was the testing process like for you? Did you find it straightforward?
Jon: The testing process was actually very simple. I received a kit by post, followed the instructions to swab a piece of used toilet tissue, and then sent it back to the lab. Within a few weeks, I received my report about my gut microbiome, including information about the types of bacteria present and what that meant for my overall health. The report also came with a personalised nutrition plan, which was tailored to help balance my gut bacteria and reduce my IBS symptoms.
How did you feel when you first saw the results and the plan? Was it easy to follow?
Jon: The report was really detailed and was easy to follow. The nutrition plan was very clear, with specific foods to eat more of and foods to avoid, and it also had supplement recommendations. I'd be lying if I said I stuck to the recommendations 100% of the time, sometimes life gets in the way and I'd eat out or go and meet some friends, so in those situations it's tough to stick to the plan 100%. However I saw a significant improvement either way.
How did the personalized nutrition plan compare to other things you had tried in the past?
Jon: The biggest difference was that it felt much more targeted and specific to me. Instead of just avoiding certain foods like in other diets, I was focusing on eating foods that would specifically improve my gut bacteria. It wasn’t just about what to cut out but also what to add in.
After implementing the nutrition plan, how long did it take before you started noticing changes?
Jon: I started noticing changes within the first couple of weeks. The bloating was the first thing to improve, which was a huge relief. Gradually, my bowel movements became more regular, and the abdominal pain decreased significantly. By the end of the six-week plan, I felt like a completely different person. Something I didn't expect to improve was my sleep quality, I'm still not sure why or how, but my sleep massively improved.
What would you say has been the biggest benefit of going through this process?
Jon: Without a doubt the reduction in my symptoms, I now feel normal after I eat something. I also understand my body better and feel in control a lot more.
For someone who might be on the fence about trying gut microbiome testing, what would you say to them?
Jon: I would say, don’t hesitate to give it a try. If you’ve been struggling with IBS or any gut-related issues and nothing seems to work, this could be the key to understanding what’s really going on. The personalised plan made a world of difference for me, and it’s definitely worth the investment in your health.
Thank you so much for sharing your story. Your experience will certainly resonate with many others who are dealing with similar issues. Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Jon: Just that I’m grateful for the whole process. It’s amazing how much the gut can influence your overall health, and I’m glad I took that step to explore it. For anyone out there struggling with IBS or other gut issues, there is hope, and finding the right approach can make all the difference.
Thank you again for your time and for sharing such valuable insights. Wishing you continued health and happiness!
