Report Insights

Understand your gut microbiome with detailed profiles.

1. What does the Decode Biome report tell me about my gut microbiome?

The report provides a detailed analysis of the types and balance of microbes in your gut. It offers insights into how these microbes impact digestion, immunity, metabolism, and overall well-being.

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2. What is taxonomy in gut microbiome testing?

Taxonomy refers to the scientific classification of microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, and archaea, based on shared characteristics. It helps identify which organisms are present in your gut and their potential health effects.

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3. What is the Disease Susceptibility Score?

This score evaluates the ratio of protective to harmful bacteria in your gut. A higher score indicates a more balanced microbiome and potentially a lower risk of chronic conditions. It is an estimation and not a diagnostic marker.

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4. What is the Gut Microbiome Diversity Score?

This score, based on the Shannon Index, reflects the variety and distribution of microorganisms in your gut. Greater diversity is generally linked to better gut resilience and health.

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5. Why is microbial diversity important?

A diverse microbiome supports multiple gut functions, prevents overgrowth of harmful species, and contributes to immune balance and nutrient metabolism.

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6. Why is each person’s microbial community unique?

Your gut microbiome is as unique as your fingerprint, shaped by factors like diet, lifestyle, genetics, and environment. This uniqueness can affect how your body processes food and responds to inflammation.

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7. Which microbial species are most abundant in the gut?

Bacteria are the most abundant microbes in the gut. Compared to fungi and archaea, bacterial species are better studied and have a more defined role in gut health and disease.

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8. Does the report detect harmful microbes or pathogens?

Yes. It identifies both:

• True pathogens which can cause illness in healthy individuals.

• Opportunistic pathogens which are generally harmless but may become harmful when immunity is compromised.

It also lists undetected pathogens for additional context.

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9. What are probiotic species, and why are they important?

Probiotics are beneficial microbes that support digestion, reduce inflammation, aid nutrient absorption, and strengthen the immune system.

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10. What are health-associated commensal species?

These are helpful, resident microbes in your gut that play protective roles, support nutrient metabolism, prevent infections, and maintain microbial balance. Their imbalance may lead to health concerns.

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11. What is an enterotype, and how does it affect digestion?

Your enterotype categorises your gut microbiome based on dominant bacterial species and dietary preferences:

• Bacteroides: Protein-rich diet

• Prevotella: Fibre-rich diet

• Ruminococcus: Mixed diet This helps you understand how your dietary habits influence your gut microbes and how efficiently your body extracts energy from food.

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12. What does the metabolic profile reveal about gut health?

It shows how efficiently your gut microbes break down food and produce key health-related compounds. This helps in assessing digestion, nutrient absorption, and metabolic output.

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13. How does the report assess macronutrient digestion?

It evaluates how well your gut microbes break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, especially undigested food in the colon, to support better nutritional outcomes.

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14. What metabolites are analysed in the report?

The report includes an analysis of:

• Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like acetate, butyrate, and propionate

• Gas production, including ammonia, methane, and hydrogen sulfide

• Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA

• B-vitamins including B2, B7, B9, and B12

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15. Why are SCFAs important?

SCFAs help reduce gut inflammation, support the immune system, and maintain the gut lining. They are critical indicators of gut metabolic health.

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16. What does gas production in the report indicate?

The report highlights fermentation by-products like methane and hydrogen sulfide, which may correlate with digestive discomfort or microbial imbalance.

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17. Do gut microbes produce neurotransmitters?

Yes. Gut bacteria can synthesise neurotransmitters such as serotonin, GABA, and dopamine, which play roles in mood, stress response, and digestion via the gut-brain axis.

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18. Can my gut microbiome produce essential vitamins?

Yes. The report assesses the potential for B-vitamin production by your gut microbes. This helps identify how your gut contributes to nutritional status and whether dietary support is needed.

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19. Does this report diagnose any diseases?

No. The Decode Biome Report is a non-diagnostic tool meant for educational and lifestyle guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

The report does not diagnose health conditions or replace medical advice.