Commercial intestinal bacteria tests for consumers are apparently often not very informative. US scientists warn that claims by companies that they are able to detect abnormal microbiomes are not supported by research.
45 percent of the companies we identified sell dietary supplements that they recommend to consumers based on their test results. The authors' main criticism is that companies do not have to prove the analytical and clinical significance or clinical benefit of their tests. "Although our recommendations target the U.S. regulatory system, they may also apply to other countries where these services are marketed," the group writes.