Melbourne-based. Telehealth Australia-wide.

GUT MICROBIOME TESTING · MELBOURNE

Gut microbiome testUnderstand
what’s happening
inside your gut.

Microba gut microbiome testing.
At home. Explained by your practitioner.

A Melbourne-based gut health team, supporting you online anywhere in Australia.

Test + results consultation from $697 AUDOr $727 total on a payment plan · Treatment packages available

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Gut-focused naturopathy & clinical nutrition.Meet your practitioners
★★★★★“I’ve had loads of information shared with me on this journey, explained in a way to help me understand…”Mica Woodman · Google review excerpt
Conceptual illustration of a diverse microbial ecosystem
MICROBA EXPLORERSample report · different test tier
Microba Comprehensive sample report showing health categories and gastrointestinal markers
See a sample report.
Simple at-home stool collection14-day lab turnaround*Personalised recommendationsAustralia-wide telehealth
Practitioner-led interpretationMicroba microbiome analysisDedicated gut health clinic☆Genuine Google reviews

ONE TEST. THREE LEVELS OF CARE.

Choose the support
that fits your next step.

Every package includes the same Microba Extended test, a results consultation and a Meet and Greet with The Gut Guy. Choose the treatment and support you need.

START WITH CLARITY
THE GUT GUY CARE PACKAGE

Test & Understand

Your results, explained. Your next steps, clearer.

$697AUD upfront

Or $727 total · weekly / fortnightly

  • Meet and Greet with The Gut Guy
  • Microba gut microbiome test
  • Results consultation

You want to understand your results before deciding on further treatment.

Additional costs & details

Treatment consultations, ongoing support and supplements are separate.

FOUR MONTHS OF SUPPORT
THE GUT GUY CARE PACKAGE

Complete Care

Coordinated care, with support to put it into practice.

$1,498AUD upfront

Or $1,528 total · weekly / fortnightly

  • Meet and Greet with The Gut Guy
  • Microba gut microbiome test
  • Results consultation
  • Naturopathy treatment consultation
  • Clinical nutrition treatment consultation
  • 3 × 15-minute clinical progression phone calls
  • 4 months of 1:1 support and clinical adjustments with Josh

You want naturopathy, clinical nutrition and ongoing guidance as you implement your plan.

Additional costs & details

Supplements, additional tests and care beyond these inclusions are separate. Clinical adjustments are made within scope, with your treating practitioner involved where needed.

Supplements and additional tests are separate in every package. A dedicated food treatment plan is included with Complete Care’s clinical nutrition consultation.

Compare every inclusion

What’s includedTest & UnderstandTest & TreatComplete Care
Microba gut microbiome testIncludedIncluded
Meet and Greet with The Gut GuyIncludedIncluded
Results consultationIncludedIncluded
Naturopathy treatment consultationNot includedIncluded
Clinical nutrition treatment consultationNot includedIncluded
15-minute clinical progression callsNot included3 calls
1:1 support & clinical adjustments with JoshNot included4 months
Upfront package price$697$1,498
Payment-plan total$727$1,528

All packages use Microba Microbiome Explorer Extended. Supplements and additional tests are separate. Clinical adjustments are made within scope, with your treating practitioner involved where needed.

*14-day laboratory turnaround. Allow additional time for postage and your results consultation; processing can vary. Confirm delivery, return postage and support arrangements before ordering.

A payment plan adds $30 to your package. Agree on weekly or fortnightly instalments with Josh.Discuss payment options — free call

A LITTLE GUIDANCE

Which care package
fits what I need?

Three questions. A clearer place to start. No personal details needed.

A package guide, not a clinical assessment. Your practitioner confirms suitability. Answers stay on this page.

Find a place to start.

Choose the level of care, support and cost that feels right for you.

3 questions · No personal details
JOSH’S STORY IN THE NEWSRiverine HeraldYarrawonga Chronicle
About the coverage

“The Gut Guy’s journey to healing” · Ryan Bellingham · 21 January 2026. A profile of Josh’s path from science to founding the clinic.

Riverine Herald source Yarrawonga Chronicle source

WHY LOOK CLOSER?

Same symptoms.
Different stories.

Bloating. Food reactions. Unpredictable bowel habits. The same symptoms can have different contributors.

Still having gut symptoms after medical checks? Microbiome testing may add another piece of information for your practitioner to consider alongside your symptoms, diet and history.

Test findingsClinical contextPersonal next steps
What do we mean by “functional” testing?

It means looking at aspects of how the gut ecosystem functions, as well as which microbes are present. Some findings may help inform food, lifestyle or supplement choices. An unusual marker does not prove what caused your symptoms, and changing it does not necessarily improve how you feel. This complements medical investigation; it does not replace it.

Common reasons people start a conversation

Bloating & gasConstipation or diarrhoeaIBS-style bowel changesFood reactionsDigestive discomfortPain or refluxFatigue & brain fogStress-related gut changesChanges after overseas travelAfter antibioticsAfter a gut infection
What about skin changes, medications or other trigger events?

People sometimes seek advice about skin concerns such as eczema, psoriasis, acne or rosacea, or notice changes after overseas travel, antibiotics, PPI use, infections (including gastro, COVID, parasites or H. pylori), stress, postpartum changes or menopause. PCOS may also be part of a person’s wider health history. These concerns can have many causes: this test does not diagnose them or establish that the microbiome caused them.

THE PRACTICAL BENEFITS

Less wondering.
A clearer plan of action.

Your test findings help us turn a detailed microbial profile into practical food changes and, where appropriate, targeted supplement recommendations.

Food choices for your symptoms

We combine your test findings with your symptoms and food history to recommend foods to adjust or trial for better digestive comfort.

Foods to support your microbiome

Your microbial profile helps guide the fibres and plant foods we recommend, introduced gradually to support your microbiome and suit your tolerance.

Targeted supplement recommendations

Your results help our naturopaths assess whether a supplement is appropriate, then recommend a product, dose and review plan suited to you.

WHY THAT MATTERS

Make better use of your time.

Start with food and supplement priorities informed by your results, rather than repeatedly trying an unstructured approach.

Give every supplement a reason.

Understand why a supplement is recommended and when to review it—helping you avoid spending on products without a clear purpose.

Testing does not prescribe a diet or supplement on its own. Recommendations and outcomes depend on your clinical assessment.

LOOK BEYOND THE TEST

Who interprets your report
matters.

A test gives you information. The practitioner you choose helps turn it into a treatment plan.

Linda SpirouLinda SpirouGut Health Naturopath

Specific training.
A more informed conversation.

When comparing clinics offering Microba, ask about the practitioner’s training in gut health and report interpretation—not just which test they offer.

Linda holds both of these certifications from the Microbiome Restoration Center, alongside her degree and additional gastrointestinal training.

Meet Linda & our team
Microbiome Restoration Center Certified Healthy Gut Practitioner badge — Linda Spirou

Certified Healthy Gut Practitioner

Focused practitioner education in gut health, supporting a considered approach to your care.

Microbiome Restoration Center Certified Microbiome Analyst badge — Linda Spirou

Certified Microbiome Analyst

Specific training in microbiome report interpretation, considered alongside your clinical history.

Certifications shown are Linda Spirou’s. Training informs care; it does not guarantee a particular treatment outcome.

WHY WE USE MICROBA

A detailed test.
Made useful by your team.

We choose Microba for its species-level profiling, functional insights and practitioner report. Interpretation is what connects the data to your care.

DNA-based microbiome profilingMicrobial + gut physiology markersA report to review together
01

Diversity & richness

The variety and spread of microbial species detected in your sample.

IN EVERY PACKAGE
02

Microbial composition

Which organisms are present, and their relative abundance.

IN EVERY PACKAGE
03

SCFA-related microbes

Butyrate, acetate and propionate-associated groups. Microbial potential, not a direct metabolite measurement.

IN EVERY PACKAGE
04

Selected microbial functions

Hydrogen sulphide, methane, mucin consumption and other reported functional groups.

IN EVERY PACKAGE
05

Gut physiology

Calprotectin, lactoferrin, faecal occult blood, pancreatic elastase, secretory IgA, zonulin-family peptides and faecal pH.

IN EVERY PACKAGE
06

Findings in context

Your practitioner brings the results together with your symptoms and history to agree on next steps.

RESULTS CONSULTATION INCLUDED

Microba Extended is included in all three packages. A targeted pathogen panel is not included. Microbiome profiling is not a standalone diagnostic test.

BEYOND THE NUMBERS

See the information.
Understand the meaning.

See the findings. Ask better questions. Leave with priorities you understand.

  • Findings explained in context
  • Practical, personalised recommendations
  • Medical follow-up where appropriate
Your microbiome, in context
ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE

A view of your microbial ecosystem

Your practitioner looks at the whole community, not a single “good” or “bad” organism.

Microbial diversityWithin example range
Species richnessFor discussion
Butyrate-producing microbesFor discussion

Simulated display only. These are not patient results, diagnostic thresholds or the Microba report interface.

FROM YOUR HOME TO YOUR NEXT STEP

Simple to collect.
Supported beyond the report.

At-home stool collectionPost office drop-offOnline results consultation

No need to come into a clinic.

  1. 01

    Choose your package

    Every package includes a Meet and Greet with The Gut Guy. A practitioner confirms testing suitability.

  2. 02

    Receive your kit

    Your collection kit is delivered to your address.

  3. 03

    Collect your stool sample

    Simple collection in the privacy of your home. Follow your kit instructions.

  4. 04

    Drop it at the post office

    Pack your sample as directed and take it to the post office. No clinic visit needed.

  5. 05

    Laboratory analysis

    The Microba Extended test has a 14-day lab turnaround. Allow extra time for postage.

  6. 06

    Practitioner review

    A qualified practitioner reviews the findings in context.

  7. 07

    Understand your results

    Discuss personalised recommendations and next steps.

  8. 08

    Put your plan into practice

    Complete Care includes four months of 1:1 support and clinical adjustments with Josh, within scope.

    INCLUDED WITH COMPLETE CARE

THE PEOPLE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE

The test is one part.
The care is what comes next.

Gut-focused naturopathy. Clinical nutrition.
Practical support. Medical referral when needed.

Linda Spirou, gut health naturopath at The Gut GuyLINDA SPIROU
Gut Health Naturopath & Microbiome Practitioner

MEET LINDA

Experience with gut symptoms.
Training to look deeper.

Degree-qualified naturopathy. Focused microbiome training. A practical approach shaped by her own experience with IBS.

Certified
Microbiome Analyst
Certified
Healthy Gut Practitioner
Training & qualifications
  • Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy)
  • Graduate Certificate in Evidence-Based Complementary Medicines
  • Certified Healthy Gut Practitioner & Certified Microbiome Analyst — Microbiome Restoration Center
  • Advanced Microbiome Manipulation training with Dr Jason Hawrelak
  • Monash Low FODMAP training · SIBO Doctor Approved Practitioner
Explore Linda’s full profile
Emma Hickey
Naturopath & Holistic Nutritionist

Emma Hickey

BHSc (Naturopathy) · Diploma of Holistic Nutrition. Microbiome interpretation with practical explanations.

Meet Emma
Sarah Wade
Clinical Nutritionist

Sarah Wade

BHSc (Clinical Nutrition) · Certified Practising Nutritionist, AARPN. Turning findings into realistic food strategies.

Meet Sarah
Josh Williams
Founder & Your 1:1 Support

Josh Williams

Biomedical science and biotechnology graduate, with a Master of Science and advanced gut restoration training. Your contact for clarity calls and 1:1 support.

Meet Josh

MEET JOSH WILLIAMS

Science in his background.
People at the centre.

Your first conversation and ongoing support are with the founder of The Gut Guy.

Josh’s path began in biomedical research, working under Professor Elisa Hill, before founding a clinic focused on gut health.

His own health experiences and illness within his family shaped a practical mission: help people understand their options and feel supported as they take the next step.

  • Master of Science (Biomedical Science), RMIT — with Distinction
  • Bachelor of Biomedical Science, RMIT — with Distinction
  • Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology), RMIT — with Distinction
Talk with Josh
The Health Sciences Academy Certified Gut Restoration Nutritional Advisor badge

Gut Restoration Nutritional Advisor

Advanced training with The Health Sciences Academy

International Institute for Complementary Therapists member badge

IICT Member

International Institute for Complementary Therapists

Additional certification: Certified Functional Gut Health Consultant. IICT is a professional membership, not medical registration.

OUR APPROACH TO CARE

A plan you understand.
A team that knows
when to refer.

No clinic can help everyone. If you need a different approach or specialist input, we’ll tell you openly.

Access our list of trusted independent clinics to save research time and find care that may fit better.

We are not affiliated with these clinics. Outcomes are not guaranteed.

Ask us about our approach

Testing with a purpose

Microba is our preferred provider for species-level profiling and functional insights. The right test still depends on you.

Certified gut health expertise

Linda is a Certified Healthy Gut Practitioner and Certified Microbiome Analyst. Her focused training sits alongside our team’s naturopathy and clinical nutrition care.

Support to follow through

Complete Care includes four months of 1:1 support with Josh, plus three clinical progression calls to help you follow through.

Medical collaboration when needed

GP or specialist input when your care needs a different perspective.

Josh Williams, founder of The Gut Guy, who hosts your complimentary clarity call
Your call. With Josh.The Gut Guy.

A CONVERSATION, NOT A COMMITMENT

Let’s talk about
what you need.

Speak directly with Josh—not a receptionist. Ask your questions, talk through your options and leave with a clearer next step.

Around 15 minutesShorter or longer where needed and time allows.Relaxed & conversationalA chance to talk, not a detailed clinical assessment.A clearer next stepTalk through your priorities and leave knowing what to consider next.

We can’t promise our clinic will be the right fit. We can promise a genuine conversation about your options, including when another service may be more appropriate.

Book a Free Gut Health Clarity CallRead what people say about speaking with Josh

THE PEOPLE BEHIND THE REVIEWS

Real people.
Personal experiences.

Clear explanations. Personal support.

★★★★★
“I’ve had loads of information shared with me on this journey, explained in a way to help me understand…”
M
Mica WoodmanGoogle review · excerpt
Google
★★★★★
“…he mentioned that I was not eligible for natural health and walked me through my options to discuss with my GP.”
L&T
Lisa & TuanGoogle review · excerpt
Google

Genuine excerpts from reviews displayed on The Gut Guy’s website. Individual experiences vary.

See the live Google rating and review count

GOOD QUESTIONS. CLEAR ANSWERS.

Before you
choose your package.

Want to talk it through with a person?

Book a Free Gut Health Clarity Call

New, severe or worsening symptoms, blood in your stool or unexplained weight loss need medical assessment. Do not delay care while waiting for a microbiome test.

What does gut microbiome testing show?

It gives your practitioner a picture of the microbes in your stool, their diversity and selected microbial functions, alongside markers of gut physiology. The practical aim is to help you prioritise food changes, consider which fibres or foods may support your microbiome, and discuss whether a supplement is worth trying. Your symptoms, diet and medical history matter just as much: the report cannot identify every food trigger, tell you exactly which supplements you need, or prove the cause of your symptoms.

How do I collect the sample?

Your at-home collection kit includes instructions. Collect your stool sample at home, package it as directed, then drop it at the post office for return to the laboratory. There is no need to come into a clinic. Follow the collection and posting schedule supplied with your kit.

How long do results take?

Microba lists a 14-day laboratory turnaround for the Extended test used in these packages. Allow additional time for kit delivery, return postage and your results consultation. Processing can vary; we will confirm the current estimate before you order.

Is this a SIBO test?

No. This stool test provides information about the gut microbiome, largely reflecting the large intestine; it does not diagnose small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Where appropriate, our clinic starts with Microba-informed care for the large-intestinal microbiome and reviews your progress. If symptoms or clinical findings warrant it, we then discuss separate small-intestinal assessment, such as SIBO breath testing. This is our staged approach, tailored to you—not a rule that everyone must follow. Your practitioner may recommend earlier medical assessment or SIBO investigation when needed.

Can microbiome testing diagnose IBS?

No. IBS requires a clinical assessment. A microbiome test cannot diagnose IBS, rule out all other conditions, or show that a particular microbe caused your symptoms. Your GP or treating clinician remains an important part of your care.

Do I need a practitioner?

Yes. Microba testing is arranged through a qualified practitioner. We review suitability before ordering and interpret the findings alongside your symptoms, history and other investigations. If testing is not the right next step, we will explain your options.

Can I do the test from anywhere in Australia?

The Gut Guy offers Australia-wide telehealth and at-home sample collection. Confirm delivery availability and return-postage arrangements for your location before ordering, particularly if you live remotely.

What happens after I receive my results?

Every package includes a Meet and Greet with The Gut Guy and a results consultation. Test & Treat also includes a naturopathy treatment consultation. Complete Care adds clinical nutrition, three 15-minute clinical progression phone calls and four months of 1:1 support and clinical adjustments with Josh, within scope and with practitioner input where needed. Together, we help you understand the findings and agree on practical next steps.

Should I stop supplements before testing?

Ask your practitioner and follow the instructions supplied with your specific kit. Preparation can depend on antibiotics, medications and supplements. Do not stop prescribed medication without advice from the prescriber.

What is included in the price?

Test & Understand ($697 upfront / $727 payment-plan total) includes a Meet and Greet with The Gut Guy, the Microba gut microbiome test and results consultation. Test & Treat ($937 / $967) adds a gut health naturopathy treatment consultation. Complete Care ($1,498 / $1,528) includes those services plus a clinical nutrition treatment consultation, three 15-minute clinical progression phone calls and four months of 1:1 support and clinical adjustments with Josh. All amounts are AUD. Supplements and additional tests are separate. Confirm delivery, return postage, support arrangements and payment terms before purchase.

What is the free Gut Health Clarity Call like?

You speak directly with Josh. It is a relaxed conversation about your questions, goals and possible next steps, rather than a detailed clinical assessment. Allow around 15 minutes; the call can be shorter or longer depending on what you need and the time available. You will have space to explain what has been difficult, ask about the packages and leave with a clearer direction. Josh will have a genuine conversation about your options, including another service if it may be more suitable.

Can I pay weekly or fortnightly?

Yes. Each payment plan adds $30 to the upfront package price: $727 for Test & Understand, $967 for Test & Treat, or $1,528 for Complete Care. These are the total prices, not the instalment amounts. Book a complimentary call with Josh to agree on weekly or fortnightly amounts, dates and full terms.

What if your approach is not right for me?

No clinic can help everyone. If your needs fall outside our scope or you are not progressing as hoped, we will discuss your next steps openly. You can access our list of trusted clinics through the team, with suggestions suited to your needs. This can save you hours of research and help you avoid spending time and money on services that may not fit. We are not affiliated with these clinics, and a referral cannot guarantee a particular outcome.

YOUR NEXT STEP STARTS HERE

Ready to understand
your gut microbiome?

At-home testing. Professional interpretation.
A clearer conversation about what comes next.

Prefer a payment plan? Book a free call with Josh
Packages from$697 AUD
View packages