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What this score means

Gut microbiome health is influenced by many factors, and this calculator gives an educational, simplified score based on habits commonly associated with a diverse and resilient gut microbiome in general population research, such as eating a wide variety of plant foods, fermented foods, fiber, regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and lower stress and alcohol intake.

How the score is calculated

Points are awarded across several categories, most heavily weighted toward plant food diversity (research such as the American Gut Project has linked eating 30+ different plant foods per week to greater microbial diversity) and daily fiber intake, with additional points for fermented foods, exercise, sleep near 7-9 hours, and lower stress. Recent antibiotic use and higher alcohol intake apply small deductions, since both can temporarily reduce microbial diversity.

This is not a lab test or medical diagnostic tool – it cannot measure your actual gut bacteria. It’s intended purely for general education and self-reflection on lifestyle habits, not as a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice.

Last reviewed August 2026