GET TO KNOW YOUR POOP BUGS

摘要

The package from Metametrix arrived by mail with the sort of paper tray that food stands use for hotdogs. My job: Poop in it, scoop stool into three small vials filled with liquid preservative, shake well, and FedEx back-for science. (Then I washed my hands a few times.) Metametrix is one of several companies that analyze the DNA of the legion of bacteria that lives in your gastrointestinal tract. Gut microorganisms basically eat what we eat, so smart dietary choices can foster the bugs that boost metabolism and help absorb nutrients. The bad news is that I'm 32 years old, 5'10", 190 pounds, and love peanut butter and hot wings.