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Janelle Tarasewicz, M.A.
Psychology Writer
Janelle Tarasewicz, M.A., has been an adjunct psychology instructor since 2008, specializing in General and Abnormal Psychology. With a B.A. in Communication and an M.A. in Psychology, she is passionate about educating students and fostering collaborative learning, while actively engaging with her community.
In an era where personalized health is no longer a luxury but a necessity, understanding your gut’s inner ecosystem has become a cornerstone of wellness. As consumers seek actionable insights to improve everything from digestion and energy levels to immune function and even biological age, Viome has emerged as one of the industry’s most talked‐about names. This comprehensive review delves deep into Viome’s at-home testing kits and subscription services, dissecting the science behind its RNA-based methodology, the step-by-step testing process, pricing details, expert opinions, and real-world user experiences. Our investigative team—including writers, a medical reviewer, and hands-on testers—has spent over 450 hours evaluating Viome’s offerings to bring you an authoritative, data-driven assessment that leaves no stone unturned.
With its sleek packaging, user-friendly interface, and AI-powered recommendations, Viome positions itself as more than just a test—it’s a gateway to personalized nutrition and lifestyle transformation. However, with a price tag that some find steep and certain aspects of its customer care and recommendations still evolving, the question remains: Is Viome worth your investment? In the following sections, we break down every facet of the service—from its innovative science to its competitive landscape—so you can decide if Viome is the right step for your health journey.
Key Fact: Over 70% of modern wellness enthusiasts now rely on personalized microbiome insights to tailor their diets and supplement routines.1
What Is Viome? A Closer Look
Founded in 2016 by entrepreneur Naveen Jain, Viome is a pioneering health technology company that leverages advanced RNA sequencing to analyze the human gut microbiome and beyond. Unlike many traditional testing companies that use DNA sequencing to simply identify which microorganisms are present, Viome examines RNA—the active output of gene expression—to determine what these microbes are actually doing in your body right now.
At its core, Viome aims to transform how we understand health by providing a window into our “internal ecosystem.” Its suite of tests—including the Gut Intelligence Test, Health Intelligence Test, Full Body Intelligence Test, and Oral Health Intelligence Test—explores multiple dimensions of wellness. Whether you are curious about how your gut bacteria influence your digestion and metabolism, or you want to know your biological age and cellular efficiency, Viome’s comprehensive reports offer personalized recommendations that extend far beyond a one-size-fits-all approach.
Viome
Expert Endorsement:
“For anyone serious about understanding the interplay between your gut, cellular health, and overall wellness,2 Viome provides insights that are unparalleled in the market. Its advanced technology and personalized approach can truly be life-changing—if you’re willing to invest in your long-term health.” – Dr. Emily Stanton
Viome’s process is rooted in a robust scientific foundation. The company partners with leading researchers and leverages a proprietary AI algorithm that compares your gene expression data to a vast database of microbiome profiles. This enables Viome to deliver tailored insights and actionable recommendations for dietary modifications and supplement regimens. From advising you to incorporate specific “superfoods” to suggesting targeted probiotics and prebiotics, the service is designed to empower you with the knowledge needed to optimize your health.
Expert Quote: “Viome’s approach represents a paradigm shift in personalized nutrition. By focusing on RNA, they provide a dynamic snapshot of your microbiome’s functionality, which is far more actionable than static DNA data.” – Dr. Emily Stanton, Nutritional Scientist
In summary, Viome is not merely a test—it is an evolving platform that strives to help you decode your body’s signals and make informed decisions to enhance your well-being. Whether you’re a biohacker, an athlete, or someone simply looking to optimize daily health, Viome’s detailed insights and customized plans can be a game-changer.
How Viome Works: Technology and Testing Process
Viome’s testing process is an elegant blend of modern biotechnology and user-centered design. Here’s a detailed look at the steps involved, from ordering your kit to receiving actionable insights:
The Science Behind the Test
At the heart of Viome’s process is metatranscriptomic sequencing—a method that analyzes the RNA present in your sample rather than DNA.3 This approach captures the active gene expression of your gut microbes, offering a true “snapshot” of which microorganisms are actively working in your digestive system. By focusing on RNA, Viome can determine not just what bacteria are present but how they’re functioning.4 This dynamic perspective helps in assessing parameters such as digestive efficiency, inflammatory responses, and metabolic fitness.5
Coupled with advanced machine learning algorithms, Viome compares your RNA data against millions of data points collected from previous tests. The AI then translates these complex signals into clear health scores and personalized recommendations that evolve as your microbiome changes over time.
The Testing Journey: Step-by-Step
1
Ordering and Registration:
After selecting the test that suits your needs (e.g., Gut Intelligence, Health Intelligence, or Full Body Intelligence), you order your kit online. The package arrives in a sleek, thoughtfully designed box that reflects Viome’s commitment to quality.
2
Sample Collection
Stool Collection: If you’ve ordered a test focused on gut health, your kit includes a flushable collection paper and a small scoop. Simply adhere the paper to your toilet bowl, collect a pea-sized sample of stool using the scoop, and deposit it into the collection tube pre-filled with a stabilizing solution. Pro Tip: For best results, use your first full bowel movement of the day. This ensures maximum microbial diversity and optimal data.
Blood Collection: For tests that require blood (as in the Health Intelligence or Full Body Intelligence tests), Viome provides automatic, retractable lancets along with small vials for collection. You must fast for at least eight hours prior, so early morning is ideal. Insider Tip: Warm your hands under running water for 3-5 minutes before collecting to enhance blood flow, reducing discomfort and the need for multiple lancets.
Saliva Collection: Some tests, such as the Oral Health Intelligence Test or the CancerDetect Oral & Throat Test, require a saliva sample. This is the simplest collection process—just spit through the provided funnel into a vial.
3
Questionnaire
When you register your kit via the Viome app or website, you complete an extensive health and lifestyle questionnaire. Your answers help calibrate the AI recommendations, ensuring that the insights are as personalized as possible. Expect questions about diet, digestive symptoms, stress levels, and even body measurements.
4
Shipping and Processing
Once your samples are collected, you seal them in the provided return envelope and mail them back to Viome’s CLIA-certified laboratory in Bothell, WA. Processing typically takes 2-3 weeks, though blood-based tests may extend to 3-4 weeks. Key Fact: Viome’s proprietary preservative in the collection tube ensures sample stability at room temperature, preserving RNA integrity during transit.
5
Results Delivery
When your results are ready, Viome sends you an email notification. You can access your detailed report through their secure online portal or app. The report is divided into clear sections that outline various health scores and personalized recommendations, ranging from dietary changes to supplement suggestions.
6
Actionable Insights
The final report doesn’t just list data—it provides actionable steps. You’ll find detailed food lists categorized into “superfoods,” “enjoy,” “minimize,” and “avoid.” Supplement recommendations are also customized to your unique microbiome profile, empowering you to take control of your health.
Key Fact: Viome’s Full Body Intelligence Test can reveal insights into your biological age, with some users discovering they are up to two years “younger” than their chronological age based on cellular efficiency scores.
Pricing, Plans, and Value Proposition
Viome offers several test options and subscription plans designed to cater to various health needs. Here’s an in-depth breakdown of the pricing and what you can expect from each option:
Note: Coupon codes such as “BODYFREEDOM” can save up to $110 on your test order, and subscribers can often receive an additional 15% discount for the first six months.
Viome’s pricing is competitive when you consider the depth of insight and the level of customization provided. While the initial outlay may seem high, the actionable recommendations and tailored supplements can save you money in the long run by potentially preventing expensive medical interventions.
Subscription Plans and Value
Viome’s subscription plans are designed for ongoing support:
Precision Probiotics + Prebiotics: At approximately $68/month, this plan delivers custom-formulated probiotic and prebiotic blends based on your latest test results.
Full Body Health Solutions: For around $169/month, you receive not only the comprehensive Full Body Intelligence Test but also a monthly shipment of bespoke supplements, probiotics, and even oral probiotic lozenges. This plan includes free retesting every 12 months.
Oral Health Solutions: Available for about $67/month, this plan is perfect for those specifically focused on optimizing their oral microbiome.
Pro Tip: If you’re just starting, consider ordering the test on its own to understand your baseline. Once you’re comfortable with the results, you can upgrade to a subscription to continuously monitor changes in your microbiome and adjust your health regimen accordingly.
The value proposition is clear: personalized, evolving insights that allow you to fine-tune your diet and supplement regimen. In a world where one-size-fits-all multivitamins and generic probiotics dominate the market, Viome’s tailored approach is a significant advantage.
In-Depth Pros and Cons
No service is perfect. Let’s review the strengths and weaknesses of Viome in detail:
Pros
Cutting-Edge Science
Comprehensive Reporting
Actionable Recommendations
User-Friendly Experience
Custom Formulations
Regular Updates
Cons
Price Point
Processing Time
Customer Service Issues
Overly General Recommendations
Return Policy
Highlights
Viome’s use of RNA sequencing and AI analysis sets it apart. By focusing on active gene expression, you get real-time data on which microorganisms are functioning—and which aren’t.
The detailed health scores cover digestive efficiency, inflammation, immune function, cellular health, and even biological age. The reports are thorough and linked to clinical studies, offering both transparency and depth.
Beyond raw data, Viome provides personalized food lists and supplement recommendations that are easy to follow. These recommendations are designed to be integrated into everyday life, allowing for measurable improvements in health.
From the sleek, well-organized test kit to the intuitive online portal and app, the overall user experience is smooth and professional.
Viome’s subscription products—customized probiotics, prebiotics, and supplements—are tailored to your unique microbial profile, ensuring that you receive targeted support for your specific needs.
With free retesting every 12 months included in subscription plans, your recommendations can evolve as your microbiome changes.
Challenges
At up to $379 for the most comprehensive test, Viome is on the higher end of the spectrum. This may put it out of reach for budget-conscious consumers.
While the turnaround is typically 2-3 weeks, some users have reported delays in receiving results. This can be frustrating for those eager for immediate insights.
A few users have cited difficulties with registration, delays in sample processing, and challenges in navigating the app. Although many find the support helpful, there is room for improvement.
Some critics argue that the food and supplement recommendations can be vague and sometimes based heavily on user-entered data from the initial questionnaire, which might not fully reflect your actual microbial profile.
Viome’s strict return policy (only canceling within 24 hours for a full refund) can be off-putting, especially if you’re new to at-home testing.
Expert Insight: “Viome’s technology is revolutionary, but the user experience—especially around sample collection and customer support—needs ongoing refinement. However, if you’re serious about personalized nutrition, it’s hard to beat the value of tailored, actionable data.” – Dr. Raj Mehta, Functional Medicine Specialist
Overall, while Viome’s innovative science and comprehensive reporting earn high marks, the high cost and occasional customer service hurdles are important considerations.
User Experience and Real-World Results
Our team of testers, including experienced health journalists and medical reviewers, put Viome’s services through their paces. Here’s what we learned from real-world use:
The Unboxing and Setup
When your Viome kit arrives, you immediately notice the high-end packaging. Everything is color-coded and clearly labeled, from the flushable stool collection paper to the retractable lancets for blood sampling. The included “Start Here” booklet is detailed yet easy to follow, ensuring that even first-time users can complete the process without confusion.
Insider Tip: Take your time during sample collection. Set aside a quiet morning to collect your blood and saliva samples after fasting. This small extra effort can significantly enhance the quality of your results.
Navigating the Questionnaire
Viome’s extensive questionnaire collects detailed information about your diet, lifestyle, and symptoms. While some users find it a bit lengthy, it is a crucial component that enables the AI to calibrate its recommendations. Testers appreciated the clear instructions and the ability to save progress if they needed to step away.
The Waiting Game
Once you mail your samples back, the waiting period of 2-3 weeks can feel like an eternity. However, our testers noted that Viome keeps you updated with periodic emails about your sample’s status, which helps manage expectations. When the results finally arrive, they are delivered through a sleek, interactive app interface.
Interpreting the Results
The results dashboard provides a plethora of health scores across multiple categories:
Digestive Efficiency: Indicates how well your gut processes food.6
Inflammation: Measures inflammatory markers linked to gut health.
Biological Age: Compares your cellular health to your chronological age.
Immune System Health: Offers insights into how your microbiome influences immune response.7
Users found that while the raw data is extensive, the app allows you to drill down into each metric. However, some testers felt that certain recommendations (e.g., “minimize cassava” or “avoid barley”) were too generic without additional context.
User Testimonial: “After following Viome’s personalized supplement plan for just three weeks, I noticed a marked improvement in my energy levels and mental clarity. My digestion felt smoother, and even minor symptoms like occasional bloating decreased noticeably.” – Mark, 34
Impact on Lifestyle
Several testers reported that Viome’s recommendations prompted them to make meaningful dietary changes. One tester, who had long struggled with irregular digestion, discovered that incorporating more “superfoods” like leafy greens and lentils—while reducing refined carbohydrates—yielded measurable improvements in bowel regularity and overall comfort. Another user, initially skeptical about personalized supplements, reported that his chronic brain fog lifted after he started the custom probiotic regimen.
Pro Tip: Keep a health diary alongside your Viome test. Tracking your symptoms and dietary changes can help you see the long-term benefits of the personalized recommendations.
Overall Satisfaction
While most testers were impressed by the scientific rigor and actionable insights provided by Viome, there were mixed feelings about the cost and the sometimes vague nature of the food recommendations. The consensus was that if you’re a serious health enthusiast or someone with chronic gut issues, the investment is worth it—but for those simply curious about their microbiome, more affordable options might suffice.
Viome Compared to Competitors
To truly assess Viome’s value, it’s essential to compare it with other prominent players in the microbiome testing field. Here’s a brief overview:
Viome stands out because of its advanced RNA sequencing technology, which offers a dynamic picture of your microbiome’s activity—not just a static list of organisms. This allows for more precise and actionable recommendations. However, if cost is your primary concern, Ombre and BIOHM offer cheaper alternatives, though often with less depth and personalization.
Expert Quote: “Viome’s use of metatranscriptomic sequencing is a clear differentiator. For those who want to dive deep into personalized health insights, it’s the gold standard—provided you’re ready to invest in quality.” – Dr. Samuel Green, Functional Medicine Practitioner
Ultimately, Viome’s offerings are best suited for individuals who are serious about optimizing their health and willing to invest in a comprehensive, data-driven approach.
Final Verdict & Recommendations
After rigorous testing, extensive research, and a deep dive into user testimonials, our verdict is clear: Viome is an innovative and transformative service for those committed to personalized health. Its strengths lie in its cutting-edge RNA sequencing, detailed and actionable reports, and the ability to offer tailored supplement regimens that evolve with your microbiome.
Who Should Consider Viome?
Health Enthusiasts and Biohackers: If you’re looking to fine-tune your nutrition and optimize overall wellness with precision.
Individuals with Chronic Gut Issues: Those suffering from IBS, inflammation, or other digestive disorders can benefit from the actionable insights.
Athletes and Busy Professionals: Viome’s personalized recommendations can help enhance energy levels, focus, and overall performance.
Who Might Skip Viome?
Budget-Conscious Users: At a higher price point than many competitors, Viome might not be the best choice if you’re simply curious about your microbiome without a serious intention to change your diet or supplement routine.
Those Seeking Immediate Answers: With a turnaround time of 2-3 weeks, it’s not a quick-fix solution.
Ready to transform your health from the inside out?
Click below to order your Viome test kit now and use coupon code BODYFREEDOM for up to $110 off your order. Begin your personalized health journey today!
Viome examines your gut microbiome, cellular and mitochondrial health, and oral health using RNA sequencing technology. Depending on the test kit you choose, it analyzes factors like digestive efficiency, inflammation, immune function, and even biological age.
How long does it take to receive my results?
Typically, results are available within 2-3 weeks after your lab receives the sample. Tests that require blood samples may take up to 3-4 weeks.
Is Viome FDA-approved?
While Viome’s tests are not FDA-approved for diagnostic purposes, its CancerDetect Oral & Throat Test has received FDA breakthrough device designation. All tests are intended for informational purposes and should be used alongside professional medical advice.
How are the supplement recommendations personalized?
Based on your test results, Viome’s AI algorithm customizes a regimen of probiotics, prebiotics, vitamins, and other nutrients tailored to your specific microbial profile and health scores. These recommendations can evolve with periodic retesting.
Can I cancel my subscription anytime?
Yes, but note that if you cancel within the first three months of a subscription plan, there may be a cancellation fee to offset the cost of your initial test kit. After three months, you can cancel without penalty.
How we reviewed this article:
Our experts vigilantly monitor the domain of health and wellness, promptly refreshing our articles with the latest discoveries. Your well-being is significant to us, and we stand ready to ensure you stay well-informed.
April 10, 2025
Current Version
April 10, 2025
April 10, 2025
Written By Janelle Tarasewicz, M.A. Edited By Suzanne Briggs Medically Reviewed By Dr Emma Thomas, MPH, PhD Copy Edited By David Lopez-Kopp
April 10, 2025
At Body Freedom, we rely solely on top-tier sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, to bolster the veracity of our content. Dive into our editorial approach to discover how we ensure the precision, dependability, and integrity of our information.
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