Gut health is gaining increasing attention as a key player in our overall health, influencing everything from digestion to mood.
But while the focus is often on how the gut affects physical well-being, its impact on mental health is just as profound. Recent findings, like those in the Future of Mood Food report by Garden of Life in partnership with nutritionist Lily Soutter, reveal the link between gut health and emotional stability. But how can you make sure that your gut is in top shape? One way is by taking a gut health test.
Understanding the gut-brain connection
The idea that food influences mood is not new, but science is now uncovering just how deep the connection runs. According to nutritionist Soutter, "Nutrition plays a powerful role in emotional well-being". It’s more than just eating the right foods; what you put in your body directly impacts how you feel, mentally and physically. The Garden of Life report found that nearly 99 per cent of people believe food can boost mood, and 92 per cent turn to food when feeling down. This suggests a widespread recognition of the connection, but many still struggle to make informed food choices that truly benefit their mood.
Why a gut health test is important
Taking a gut health test can offer valuable insights into your microbiome, helping you understand the balance of bacteria in your gut. These tests can help identify imbalances or deficiencies that might be impacting your digestion, immunity and even your mood. If stress, sleep deprivation or poor diet have affected your gut health, a test can point you in the direction of targeted interventions - whether it’s adjusting your diet, managing stress or considering supplements.
Incorporating gut-friendly foods such as fermented items like kefir, kimchi, live yoghurt, teas or gut-friendly snacks into your diet is a good first step. However, for those who want deeper insights or are struggling with persistent gut issues, a test can give a clearer picture of what's going on inside.
The role of stress and sleep
Stress and poor sleep are two major factors that negatively affect both gut and emotional health. The report shows that 60 per cent of people cite stress as a primary mood disruptor and chronic stress is known to trigger inflammation and hormonal imbalances that affect digestion. Likewise, poor sleep impacts the balance of hormones like cortisol and serotonin, which can lead to cravings, irritability and mood swings.
Chronic stress and lack of sleep can create a vicious cycle, disrupting gut health and leaving us more prone to emotional imbalances. One way to break the cycle is through diet; simple swaps like adopting a Mediterranean diet can improve both gut health and mood, as nutritionist Lily Soutter suggests.
Hydration and mindfulness matter too
What might seem like common sense, but is often overlooked, is the importance of hydration for mood. Only 15 per cent of people recognise the impact of hydration on emotional health, yet even mild dehydration can lead to fatigue, brain fog and irritability. Staying hydrated is one of the simplest ways to boost both physical and emotional well-being. Aim for 6 to 8 cups of fluid per day to maintain focus and energy.
Mindful eating is another often underestimated practice that can help regulate mood. Taking the time to enjoy meals without distractions not only improves digestion but can also make food feel more satisfying. When we slow down and pay attention to what we eat, it gives our bodies the chance to properly absorb the nutrients they need.
Supplements to support gut health
While food plays a pivotal role, supplements can also support a balanced lifestyle. Microbiome supplements can introduce a potent blend of live cultures that support gut health. These supplements are designed to complement a healthy diet and lifestyle, but they aren’t a substitute for good nutrition. Combining gut-friendly foods and probiotics with mindful practices, stress management and sleep improvements can offer a holistic approach to improving both gut health and mood.
Simple changes for a happier gut
To support emotional well-being through diet and lifestyle, Soutter suggests prioritising whole foods and managing stress levels. Eating nutrient-dense foods over processed options and practising relaxation techniques like yoga or mindfulness can help keep both the gut and mind balanced. For those serious about improving their gut health, a gut health test can provide invaluable insights, so that dietary choices and supplements are effectively targeting areas that need improvement.
How we tested
The ES Best Shopping team tested a variety of gut health tests to determine which offered the most insightful, efficient and easy-to-use results. We began by assessing the number of samples required. Some tests needed stool samples, while others used breath tests or saliva.
Ease of use was a key factor; we considered how simple the testing process was and whether the instructions were clear and user-friendly. We also measured how quickly we received results as some tests provided feedback within days, while others took a week or more.
Overall, we considered a combination of accuracy, convenience, and depth of the findings to make sure that we could confidently recommend the best gut health tests on the market.
Read on for the best gut health tests.
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Biomesight Gut Microbiome Test
Best for: personalised solutions
Instead of just listing bacteria, this provides a complete breakdown of how my gut is functioning, looking at probiotics, harmful bacteria and even how well my microbiome produces key nutrients, neurotransmitters and detox enzymes.
What sets it apart is the tailored approach. The test doesn’t just tell me what’s in my gut; it gives actionable recommendations on foods to increase or avoid and matches me to professional-grade supplements based on my unique results. With a database of over 20,000 market-leading products, it takes the guesswork out of gut health.
The process is simple. I collected my sample at home, sent it off, and in just a couple of weeks, I received a detailed breakdown with clear, personalised advice.
Buy now £139.00, Amazon
Cerascreen Microbiome Test Kit
Best for: expert guidance
The Cerascreen Microbiome Test Kit is designed for those who want a highly detailed, lab-certified breakdown of their gut health. Using advanced DNA analysis, it doesn’t just identify bacteria, it assesses their diversity, balance and how they impact digestion and overall well-being.
What makes this test stand out is its scientific precision and medical-grade testing standards. The sample is processed in a certified laboratory, ensuring accurate and reliable results. After just three weeks, I received a clear, data-driven report on my gut flora profile, along with personalised recommendations to improve digestive health, immunity and overall gut function.
Buy now £129.00, Amazon
Randox Health Gut Microbiome Test Kit
Best for: clinical-grade testing
The Randox Health Gut Microbiome Test Kit identifies both beneficial and harmful strains that could be impacting digestion, immunity and overall health. The process is simple; collect a stool sample at home, send it back in the prepaid return envelope and receive a detailed health report within six weeks. The report breaks down gut diversity, bacterial imbalances and personalised dietary recommendations, helping to optimise digestion and support long-term gut health.
What sets this test apart is its medical expertise and credibility. With decades of experience in diagnostics, Randox Health delivers insights that are both science-backed and actionable.
Buy now £190.00, Amazon
Viome Full Body Intelligence Test
Best for: full-body health insights
The Viome Full Body Intelligence Test offers a deep dive into overall health, using advanced RNA sequencing to assess digestion, cellular function, brain health, immunity and more. Unlike standard microbiome tests, the kit provides over 50 personalised health scores, giving a holistic view of how your gut and body are performing. It also offers tailored food recommendations that dynamically update as your microbiome changes, ensuring your diet is always aligned with your health needs.
The test is simple to complete at home, with results delivered in just three weeks. With its state-of-the-art biotechnology, Viome goes beyond just gut bacteria, analysing the intricate connections between your microbiome and overall well-being.
Buy now £620.10, Amazon
BIOHM Gut Health Test Kit
Best for: easy-to-understand breakdown
The BIOHM Gut Health Test Kit offers a clear, science-backed view of your microbiome, measuring both bacteria and fungi - a feature that sets it apart from standard gut tests. Your results come with a gut score, making it easy to see how your digestive health stacks up, plus an in-depth breakdown of how your microbiome compares to optimal levels. Registered dietitians provide actionable recommendations, helping you fine-tune your diet and lifestyle to improve your gut health.
Designed for convenient at-home use, the test is simple to complete and results are delivered in a user-friendly format, so you can understand your gut health at a glance.
Buy now £253.22, Amazon
Newfoundland Digestive Health Bundle
Best for: a digestive health check
The Newfoundland bundle is designed to detect and diagnose key gut health issues, providing valuable insights for better digestive management. This at-home test screens for bowel health, stomach ulcers and coeliac disease, helping you take proactive steps toward improving your overall well-being.
With doctor-approved testing, you get reliable results that can guide lifestyle changes or medical follow-ups. For anyone experiencing digestive discomfort or looking for clarity on their gut health, this bundle offers a straightforward, science-backed approach to understanding your digestive system.
Buy now £29.67, Newfoundland
Medichecks qFIT Bowel Cancer Screening Test
Best for: proactive screening
The qFIT Bowel Cancer Screening Test offers a simple, at-home way to monitor your bowel health, detecting hidden blood in your stool, which is one of the earliest indicators of colorectal cancer and other bowel conditions.
Trusted by the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme, this test is ideal for those at higher risk or anyone looking for peace of mind. With results in just four working days, a bespoke doctor’s report, and a secure online portal to track your health over time, it’s a convenient and reliable way to stay on top of your gut health.
Buy now £55.00, Medichecks
