Gut microbiota imbalance, also known as dysbiosis, is a disruption in the normal balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria in the digestive tract. It is caused by factors including poor diet, antibiotic use, stress, infections, and inflammatory conditions that alter the bacterial composition. The TMAO (Trimethylamine N-Oxide) test is the most important blood test for assessing the metabolic consequences of gut microbiota imbalance.
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
Gut microbiota imbalance is caused by multiple factors that disrupt the normal bacterial ecosystem in your digestive tract. Antibiotic use kills both harmful and beneficial bacteria, creating an opportunity for opportunistic pathogens to overgrow. Poor diet high in processed foods and low in fiber, chronic stress, excessive alcohol consumption, inflammatory bowel diseases, and certain infections can all shift the bacterial balance toward harmful species like Clostridium difficile while reducing beneficial bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species.
The TMAO (Trimethylamine N-Oxide) test is the most important blood test for assessing gut microbiota imbalance because it measures a specific metabolite produced when gut bacteria break down dietary choline and carnitine from red meat, eggs, and dairy products. Elevated TMAO levels indicate that your gut bacteria are metabolizing these nutrients in ways that may increase cardiovascular disease risk and reflect an imbalanced bacterial composition. While comprehensive stool tests can identify specific bacterial species, the TMAO blood test provides valuable insight into the functional metabolic activity of your gut microbiota and its potential health impacts.
You should get tested if you experience persistent digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation that do not improve with dietary changes. Testing is also important if you have recently completed antibiotic treatment, have been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, struggle with unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight, or have cardiovascular risk factors combined with digestive issues. You might also consider testing if you experience frequent infections, food sensitivities, skin problems like eczema, or brain fog and mood changes that could be linked to gut health.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
What this means
Your TMAO level is elevated, which may indicate increased cardiovascular risk. Higher TMAO levels have been associated with greater risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiac events. This suggests your gut bacteria may be producing excess TMAO from your current diet, particularly from red meat, eggs, or high-fat animal products.
Recommended actions
Reduce consumption of red meat, egg yolks, and high-fat dairy products
Increase plant-based foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes
Consider taking probiotics or eating fermented foods to support healthier gut bacteria
Retest in 3-6 months after implementing dietary changes
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
3303 reviews
Sample results
Your 24/7 Personal Lab Guide
Quick questions:
