Key Points:
- Direct-to-consumer (DTC) microbiome tests are offered by various companies claiming to improve gut health with personalized treatments based on microbiome analysis. However, these tests lack reliable analytical and clinical validity, which raises significant concerns about their effectiveness and safety.
- The science behind the microbiome is complex and not fully understood yet. Current DTC tests do not have a standardized method, resulting in inconsistent and unreliable results. This variability undermines their use in clinical settings.
- The article highlights the potential dangers of making health decisions based on these tests, including the risk of misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of serious conditions, unnecessary interventions, and possible health complications from unproven supplements or probiotics.