If you've been taking probiotics or other supplements as part of your regular routine, we recommend continuing your usual regimen before testing. Microbiome Explorer is designed to provide a snapshot of your gut microbiome as it is at the time of sample collection.
If you've recently started, stopped, or changed your probiotics or supplements, we recommend remaining on your new routine for at least two weeks before collecting your sample. This allows your microbiome time to adapt so your results better reflect your current gut environment.
If your healthcare practitioner has given you specific instructions about your supplements, please follow their advice.
What about antibiotics, antifungals, alcohol and NSAIDs?
Preparation recommendations for these differ from probiotics and supplements:
Antibiotics: Wait at least 4 weeks after finishing your course before collecting your sample (unless your healthcare practitioner has advised otherwise).
Antifungals: Wait at least 4 weeks after completing treatment before testing.
Alcohol and NSAIDs: Avoid these for 48 hours before collecting your sample, as they may affect the gut physiology markers included in the Extended and Comprehensive tests.
If you're unsure whether a medication or supplement may affect your results, please speak with your healthcare practitioner or contact our Customer Support team.