Emerging research suggests that Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) may enhance gut health in adults by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. Originally studied in infants, HMOs are known to selectively support strains like Bifidobacterium, helping to establish a balanced gut microbiome and support immune system development.
Recent studies indicate that similar benefits may extend to adults. Supplementation with HMOs has been associated with increased levels of Bifidobacteria and elevated production of Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)—key compounds known to strengthen the gut barrier and reduce inflammation.
Study Objective:
This study aims to evaluate the impact of daily HMO supplementation on the adult gut microbiome. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either an HMO supplement or a placebo once daily for 30 days. Gut microbiome samples will be collected at the start and end of the study to assess changes.
You have taken probiotic or prebiotic supplements in the past 6 months, including: Probiotic powders or capsules Beverages or supplements with added probiotics Multivitamins containing probiotics (Note: Naturally fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kombucha are permitted.)
You have taken oral or intravenous antibiotics in the past 8 weeks
You have any of the following existing health conditions: Gastrointestinal disorders (e.g., IBS, IBD, Celiac disease) Immune or autoimmune conditions, including: Severe Combined Immunodeficiency (SCID) Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
You have received results from an at-home microbiome stool test within the past 6 months (Excludes clinical lab tests such as cultures or pathogen screenings)
You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to conceive during the study period
You are lactose intolerant or have a dairy allergy
You intend to use any other prebiotic or probiotic supplements or complete an at-home microbiome test during the study
You plan to make significant changes to your diet over the course of the study
Dayhoff integrates cutting-edge data science, deep learning, and a robust bioinformatics repository to advance personalized medicine. From families seeking actionable health insights to research labs exploring intricate datasets, our patented technology and expert partnerships deliver transformative results.
Complete the qualification survey using the button on this page to find out if you’re eligible.
Interested participants will be asked to provide basic information such as age and probiotic use, and to review a checklist for any relevant health conditions via email. If eligible, a clinical coordinator will connect with you virtually to complete the enrollment process and guide you through signing the consent forms.
Both gut samples can be collected at home using our easy swab method. A prepaid return envelope will be included in your kit for mailing the samples back.
You’ll also complete a health history questionnaire and a follow-up survey after sampling.
Processed in a CLIA-certified lab using proprietary technology, Dayhoff’s gut health test delivers strain-level accuracy and a comprehensive profile of all microbes in the gut microbiome—including bacteria, fungi, viruses, parasites, and archaea. Results are typically available within 4–5 weeks.
At the end of the study, you’ll receive a detailed gut health report, including a personalized expert note reviewed by Dayhoff’s microbiome team.
Dayhoff also offers actionable, evidence-based recommendations to help adults understand their gut health and address potential imbalances.
Please note: The gut microbiome report and action plan are part of Dayhoff’s standard Gut Test product and are not directly linked to the research study itself.
Participants who complete the study and all required surveys will be eligible to receive $100 in compensation.
Chief Medical Officer
Integrative Pediatrician and Pediatric
Functional Medicine Expert
Founder, Healthy Kids Happy Kids
Chief Medical Officer
Integrative Pediatrician and Pediatric
Functional Medicine Expert
Founder, Healthy Kids Happy Kids
Chief Medical Officer
Integrative Pediatrician and Pediatric
Functional Medicine Expert
Founder, Healthy Kids Happy Kids
Chief Medical Officer
Integrative Pediatrician and Pediatric
Functional Medicine Expert
Founder, Healthy Kids Happy Kids
Chief Medical Officer
Integrative Pediatrician and Pediatric
Functional Medicine Expert
Founder, Healthy Kids Happy Kids
Chief Medical Officer
Integrative Pediatrician and Pediatric
Functional Medicine Expert
Founder, Healthy Kids Happy Kids
Participation in the study is completely free.
To take part, you’ll need to:
Sample collection is quick, can be done at home on your own schedule, and typically takes just a few minutes. Each survey takes approximately 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your responses.
The full study lasts about 30 days, during which you'll take a daily supplement. You’ll complete your second sample and a final survey at the end of the study period.
Participants will receive $100 in compensation upon successful completion of the study requirements,
which include:
In addition, all participants will receive their comprehensive adult gut microbiome report, including detailed evaluations and a personalized action plan. Reports are typically delivered 4–6 weeks after the study concludes.
The primary risk involves the potential exposure of personal or health-related data.
Dayhoff collects personal information such as your name, email, mailing address, and health details through online surveys. While the likelihood of a data breach is low, it is a potential risk.
To protect your privacy:
These measures are in place to ensure your information remains secure and confidential throughout the study.