Frequently Asked Questions

What is the microbiome?

The microbiome refers to all the organisms that live inside or on your body. These organisms comprise bacteria, fungi, viruses, protists, archaea and more. The microbiome has been shown to play a crucial role in human, having been linked to a wide variety of diseases, symptoms, digestion, fitness performance, and healthy aging. The microbiome has been described as a new and critical organ that science and medicine is still learning about.

How is Jona's microbiome profiling different from other tests?

Jona not only identifies, down to the strain level, all the bacteria, fungi, viruses and other organisms in your sample. Our technology helps you interpret these findings by providing a personalized summarization of the scientific literature as it relates to your microbiome, including all the conditions and symptoms that have been associated with your microbiome and pointing you to the corresponding studies. Our technology additionally summarizes what is known in the scientific literature about how actions that you can take might change your microbiome so that you can have all the information you need to make decisions about your health using the latest science.

What are the different types of microbiome sequencing?

16S and 18S sequencing have been used to identify bacteria and ITS sequencing has been used to identify fungus. Although these sequencing techniques are less expensive, they can only identify certain organisms and are often unable to distinguish different strains of a species. Strain level identification has become increasingly important as the scientific literature is showing that two different strains of the same species can affect someone’s health quite differently. Jona uses shotgun metagenomic sequencing to identify all organisms, down to the strain level, in your microbiome.

How accurate are these results based on my microbiome?

Our AI has been validated to provide accurate insights based on microbiome composition. However, results should be discussed with your healthcare provider and considered as one part of your overall health plan picture.

How does Jona use AI?

Jona’s specially-designed and proprietary AI system reads peer-reviewed microbiome literature to match your profile with microbiome signatures found in the research. Jona intends to publish the details of our AI system in the near future.

Is the Jona test CLIA compliant?

Yes. We process submitted samples through a CLIA-certified laboratory to provide our microbiome sequencing services.

How often should you take a Jona microbiome test?

We recommend to take another microbiome test every 3-6 months especially as you actively change your diet, your environment, or are exposed to antibiotics. For those suffering from conditions and symptoms actively trying to improve their health, retesting after implementing their actions is important to understand how their microbiome is improving.

Is the Jona test HSA/FSA eligible?

Yes, your Jona microbiome test may be HSA/FSA eligible. You may be required to submit a letter of medical necessity from your provider. You can also submit your order confirmation as an itemized receipt for HSA/FSA reimbursement. We cannot guarantee coverage because every plan is a little different.

Where is Jona available?

Jona is available in most US states (except NJ and NY) and Canada.

Do I need to stop taking my probiotics or supplements before taking the Jona test?

Take the test in your normal state unless your doctor advises otherwise. If you would like results unsupported by probiotics or supplements, wait one month after stopping them to take your sample.

Can this analysis diagnose me with a specific condition?

No, results identify microbiome signatures linked to certain conditions but are for informational purposes only.

Can I share my results with a provider?

Yes, Jona offers a PDF summary export feature as well as a provider portal where your provider can seamlessly view your full results.

How often should I retest?

Depending on your goals and how quickly you would like to assess your microbiome for changes, you should retest anywhere from 1 to 6 months after receiving your results and applying diet and lifestyle changes.

Does Jona sell probiotics, supplements, or food products?

No. Jona’s loyalty is solely to you and our commitment is to giving you all the latest, science-backed, information to make optimal decisions on your health.