Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a type of bacteria that is naturally found in the intestines of humans and other animals. It is a gram-negative, facultative anaerobic, rod-shaped bacterium that is a member of the Enterobacteriaceae family. E. coli is a beneficial bacteria that helps to break down food and produce vitamins. However, some strains of E. coli can cause food poisoning....
Who would benefit from testing their E. coli levels?
People who have had a recent bout of food poisoning: Testing for E. coli can help to determine the cause of the food poisoning and identify any underlying health conditions that may have contributed to it.
People with chronic digestive problems: E. coli levels can be disrupted in people with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. Testing can help to identify any imbalances that may be contributing to their symptoms.
People who are at risk of getting E. coli infection: This includes people who work with food, travel to developing countries, or have weakened immune systems. Testing can help to identify people who may be more susceptible to infection and allow them to take preventative measures.
Symptoms of too low or too high levels of Escherichia coli
In general, low levels of E. coli are not a cause for concern. However, in some cases, low levels of E. coli can be associated with conditions such as:
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Stomach ulcers
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Too high levels of E. coli can be a sign of food poisoning. Symptoms of food poisoning caused by E. coli can include:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Abdominal cramps
Fever
Bloody stool
In severe cases, E. coli infection can lead to kidney failure, hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and even death.
How does Escherichia coli affect the gut?
E. coli is a beneficial bacteria that helps to keep the gut healthy. It helps to break down food, produce vitamins, and regulate the immune system. E. coli also helps to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut.
Can E. coli cause lasting problems?
Yes, E. coli can cause lasting problems in some people. The most common lasting problem is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It is thought that E. coli infection can damage the lining of the gut, which can lead to IBS.
Other lasting problems that can be caused by E. coli infection include:
Crohn’s disease, an inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the digestive tract
Ulcerative colitis, another inflammatory bowel disease that causes inflammation of the large intestine
Renal failure, a condition in which the kidneys fail to function properly
Hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), a condition that can cause kidney failure, seizures, and even death
The risk of developing lasting problems from E. coli infection is higher in people with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, young children, and people with chronic health conditions.
A healthy gut impacts your brain, immune system, and overall well-being. The Gut Microbiome is home to many types of bacteria and microbes, including yeast. These organisms are res...
GetTested's Gut Microbiome Test Medium is a gut flora test targeted primarily to problems with obesity, diabetes, inflammatory diseases. It measures 15 bacteria such as Lactobaci...
GetTested's Gut Microbiome Test Large is the test for you who want a comprehensive overview of your gut health. Many health problems arise from imbalances in our gut and this test ...
The Gut Microbiome Test XL is for those who really want to understand their health. Whether you have IBS/IBD, stomach issues like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, weight prob...
GetTested's IBS test is a comprehensive gastrointestinal test that analyses intestinal flora (bacteria and yeast), digestive function, including pancreatic elastase, bile acids, an...
“The home test was straightforward with easy to follow instructions. The test result was detailed and clear in its presentation. Also had the opport...”
Richard
“We looked at a lot of companies offering the same services but made the decision to go forward with get tested because the labs are based here in t...”
Natasha
“There are other providers out there, I have tried 3. Gettested was the fastest and the customer service was the best. I even received my test on th...”
Alan
“Absolutely perfect, results came after few days and finally after a lots of times visited GP, we finally know why my son has eczema - he is allergy...”
E
“I found them to be professional and not too long a wait for results. Helpful with any after questions. Will be using them again if need be. I highl...”
Eileen
“I really value my test and to see the results. It is a jungle when your health is online. So get accurate and precise knowledge is a gift, as it is...”
Des
Still not sure what you need?
Let our experienced team of nutritionists, medical experts, health coaches guide you.