Viome Gut Health Test Review: A Deep Dive into Personalizing Your Diet

Miska Salemann, a health and wellness writer for the New York Post, underwent Viome's $279 Advanced Gut Intelligence Test to gain a deeper understanding of her gut microbiome and its impact on her overall health. The test analyzes active microorganisms in the body using RNA sequencing to provide personalized food recommendations and supplement formulas.

Viome, a health-tech company founded by scientists and clinicians, offers two tests: the Gut Intelligence Test, focused on the gut microbiome, and the Full Body Gut Intelligence Test, which includes longevity and heart health. The Gut Intelligence Test requires users to submit a stool sample for analysis, with results typically available in two to three weeks. This particular test analyzes over 2,500 biomarkers, generating more than 25 gut-health scores, including inflammation, metabolic health, and microbiome imbalances.

Salemann's experience with the test involved a simple at-home sample collection process, followed by a comprehensive online health questionnaire. She noted that the kit provided all necessary materials for sample collection, emphasizing a need to avoid contamination from menstruation or urination before collection. The questionnaire, which covered details from body measurements to mental health, took approximately 30 minutes to complete.

Upon receiving her results three weeks later, Salemann encountered several surprising dietary revelations. Despite a history of avoiding dairy and a primarily plant-based diet rich in salads and seafood, Viome advised her to limit cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and asparagus, due to elevated sulfide gas production in her gut. Conversely, the test recommended pairing calcium-rich dairy products with high-oxalate foods, challenging her long-held belief that dairy was detrimental.

Viome's analysis also indicated specific areas needing improvement, including sulfide gas production and oxalate metabolism pathways. A key takeaway from the results, reinforced by a conversation with Viome's naturopathic doctor, Grant Antoine, was the importance of dietary diversity to nourish a broader range of beneficial gut microbes. This shifted Salemann's perspective from restricting foods to embracing variety.

Following the gut test, Salemann also tried Viome's personalized supplements, which cost approximately $169 per month. These supplements are tailored based on test results and self-reported goals, containing a mix of vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and other targeted ingredients. She also incorporated Viome's Gut Formula, a personalized probiotic and prebiotic powder. After three weeks of consistent use, Salemann reported noticeable improvements in gut comfort, digestion regularity, energy levels, and sleep scores, as indicated by her Oura Ring data.

Viome's Gut Intelligence Test is positioned as an investment for individuals genuinely interested in making lifestyle changes based on their biological data. While the health scores can be complex, the food recommendations are presented clearly. Salemann concluded that the test was valuable for her, providing actionable insights that helped her better understand and nourish her microbiome. This led to welcomed dietary changes, improved mood, increased energy, and a healthier relationship with food, without resulting in weight gain.