Advanced Gut Testing : Microbiomix Metagenomic Mapping Explained
Understanding Microbiomix Metagenomic Mapping (MMM): A Deep Dive Into Your Gut Health
As a naturopath, my focus is always on uncovering the root causes of your symptoms — not just treating them. One of the most powerful tools available to help us do this is the Microbiomix Metagenomic Mapping (MMM 2212) test. If you’ve been experiencing ongoing digestive discomfort, unexplained symptoms, or simply want a clearer understanding of your inner ecosystem, this test offers one of the most comprehensive pictures available today.
What Is the MMM Test?
The Microbiomix Metagenomic Mapping test uses advanced metagenomic shotgun sequencing to analyse all the genetic material in a stool sample. Unlike targeted tests that look only for specific microbes, this method sequences everything present — bacteria, viruses, fungi, archaea, and even microorganisms that are unculturable or previously unknown.
This unbiased sequencing identifies 28,000+ microbial species, giving us a full picture of your unique microbiome and its diversity. It helps us understand not only which organisms are present, but also what they may be doing, how they interact, and how they contribute to your symptoms or overall wellbeing.
What the MMM Test Measures
Beyond mapping the microbiome, the MMM test provides important biochemical markers related to:
Digestive capacity (Pancreatic Elastase)
Inflammation (Calprotectin)
Intestinal permeability (Zonulin)
Immune activity (Secretory IgA, Transglutaminase IgA)
Fat digestion (Steatocrit)
Microbial metabolism through SCFAs — butyrate, acetate, propionate, valerate
Detoxification pathways (Beta Glucuronidase)
pH balance
Together, these markers give us a deeper understanding of how your gut is functioning at a structural, inflammatory, and immunological level.
Additional Insights: Understanding Disease Risk & Microbial Behaviour
One of the strengths of the MMM test is its ability to provide functional insight, going beyond simple identification.
Disease Risk & Microbiome Presentation
The microbiome plays a significant role in many long-term health patterns. The MMM test helps us understand whether your microbiome composition aligns with increased risk for:
Metabolic dysfunction
Chronic inflammation
Immune dysregulation
Digestive disorders such as IBS/IBD
Dysbiosis-related symptoms
This allows us to create preventative and restorative strategies tailored specifically to you.
H. pylori Strain-Specific Resistance
Not all H. pylori infections behave the same way. The MMM test can identify your specific strain and determine whether it:
Shows signs of antibiotic resistance, or
Is more likely to require biofilm-disrupting support
This is invaluable when deciding the most effective and least disruptive treatment approach.
Blastocystis Subtypes: Eradication vs. Harmony
Blastocystis is one of the most common parasites found in stool testing, but not all subtypes are harmful. Some live harmoniously as normal commensals, while others can trigger inflammation, IBS-like symptoms, or digestive discomfort.
The MMM test identifies the specific subtype present, helping us understand whether:
It requires eradication, or
It is simply part of your healthy microbial community
This prevents unnecessary treatment and allows us to focus on what truly needs attention.
Who Can Benefit From the MMM Test?
This test is particularly helpful for those experiencing:
Digestive symptoms
Bloating, gas, distention
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Food reactivity or sensitivity
Nutrient-related concerns
Malabsorption or maldigestion
Unexplained nutrient deficiencies
Other health patterns
Food intolerances
IBS or IBD
Skin issues
Metabolic disorders
Inflammatory or immune-related symptoms
A Simple Sample With Profound Insight
This at-home stool test is simple to complete, yet it provides one of the most detailed views of your gut health currently available. Once your results arrive, we’ll go through them together — helping you understand exactly what’s happening in your gut and what steps are needed to restore balance.
If You’re Curious Whether the MMM Test Is Right for You
If you’ve been living with persistent digestive symptoms, or you feel as though something deeper is going on beneath the surface, this test can offer clarity, direction, and a personalised pathway forward.
You’re welcome to book a 10 minute functional testing call if you’d like to explore whether the MMM test is suitable for you. Or flick me an email (enquiry@katherinematthews.co.nz). Together, we’ll take the next steps toward rebuilding your gut health from the inside out.
