How to test your gut health at home: a step-by-step guide

Your gut health influences everything from digestion and immunity to skin, mood, and energy. But how do you actually test it - especially from the comfort of your home? In this guide, we break down what gut microbiome testing is, how it works, and how you can use an at-home kit to gain powerful, personalised insights into your gut health to be and feel your best.

Why gut health matters

Your gut is often also reffered to as your “second brain” for a reason. It plays a major role in breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, training your immune system, and even producing mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin! When your gut microbiome — the trillions of bacteria in your digestive tract — is out of balance, it can impact your entire body.

Signs your gut may be out of balance

• Bloating or cramping after meals

• Irregular bowel movements (constipation, diarrhoea)

• Brain fog or low energy

• Skin issues like acne or eczema

• Food sensitivities

• Trouble losing weight

• Frequent infections or low immunity

Who should consider testing their gut health?

If you’re dealing with any of the symptoms above — or you're simply curious about optimising your health — a gut microbiome test can offer clarity. It’s also useful if you’re managing IBS, trying to lose weight, or fine-tune your nutrition.

Types of gut health tests

Stool tests (like Biomine)

These are the most accurate and accessible tests for understanding the gut microbiome. They analyse the DNA of your gut bacteria to see which species are present and what they’re doing.

Blood and breath tests

Used in clinical settings to detect inflammation, food intolerances, or SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth). They’re helpful for some conditions, but not microbiome composition.

At-home vs. in-clinic testing

At-home testing is discreet, affordable, and just as accurate as many clinical tests — as long as it’s processed through a certified lab and they follow scientific rigour (like Biomine’s).

How does the at-home Biomine gut health test works

What’s in the kit

• One collection tube and swab

• Instructions for use

• Stool catcher aid (for toilet seat)

• A prepaid return envelope

• Your unique kit ID for registration

How to collect your sample

Using the swab you collect a small amount of stool that you produce on the stool catcher paper provided and place it into the tube. Seal it, shake it, and place it in the return envelope. It’s quick, mess-free, and because you are at home -completely private.

How we analyse your results

We sequence the microbial DNA and run it through our AI-powered Biominer platform. This gives you a clear report showing your bacterial composition, diversity, and potential imbalances — with guidance on how to improve your gut health.

What you’ll learn from your results

You’ll receive:

• A breakdown of your dominant and missing microbes

• Functional insights (e.g., do your microbes support digestion, immunity, or inflammation control?)

• A balance score, diversity score, and recommendations for food, lifestyle, and supplements

FAQs About At-Home Gut Testing

Is it accurate?

Yes — our test uses lab-grade DNA sequencing and advanced bioinformatics to ensure high accuracy.

Is it painful or invasive?

Not at all. It’s a simple stool collection using a scoop the size of a fingernail.

Can I test during my period?

Yes, but avoid getting menstrual blood in the sample to prevent contamination.

How long do results take?

Usually within 2–3 weeks from when we receive your sample. We’ll notify you by email.

Final Thoughts

Testing your gut at home is one of the most powerful — and surprisingly simple — things you can do for your health. Whether you're dealing with symptoms or just want to optimise your wellbeing, a gut test gives you clarity and direction.

Ready to take control of your gut health? Order your Biomine Gut Test here and get personalised results and recommendations to improve your gut and overall health.

About the Author

Diego Castillo, PhD is the Co-founder and CTO of Biomine Health. He holds a doctorate in microbiome science and leads Biomine’s research into how the gut microbiome affects digestion, mental health, weight management and longevity. Diego is passionate about making microbiome testing accessible, accurate, and actionable for everyone — starting right here in South Africa.