Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT) in Los Angeles, CA
A healthy gut microbiome is essential for digestion, immunity, and overall health. Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) is an advanced therapy designed to restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria, most notably for patients with recurrent C. difficile infection. At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition, our physicians can evaluate whether FMT or another microbiome-restoring approach is appropriate for you as part of a comprehensive, integrative plan.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Fecal Microbiota Transplant?
Fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) transfers carefully screened stool from a healthy donor, or a standardized microbiome-based product, into the digestive tract of a patient. The goal is to restore a healthy, diverse community of gut bacteria that can crowd out harmful organisms and support normal gut function.
How FMT Is Used
FMT is best established for recurrent Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection, a serious and sometimes life-threatening intestinal infection that often returns after antibiotic treatment. For this use, FMT and FDA-approved microbiome-based therapies have shown high success rates in preventing recurrence. Researchers are also studying FMT for other conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease such as ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, and metabolic conditions, but these uses remain investigational.
How FMT Is Delivered
Depending on the product and the clinical situation, microbiota therapy may be delivered through colonoscopy, enema, or oral capsules. Donor material undergoes extensive screening for infections and other risks. Your physician will explain which approach, if any, is appropriate for you.
Is FMT Right for You?
FMT is a specialized treatment that is not appropriate for everyone. At LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition, your physician will review your history, prior treatments, test results, and current health to determine whether FMT or a related microbiome therapy should be considered, and will coordinate referral when needed. For many patients, gut microbiome balance can also be improved through other approaches, including:
- Treating SIBO and other intestinal infections
- Targeted probiotics, prebiotics, and nutraceutical supplements
- Microbiome-supportive diets and the elemental diet when appropriate
- Inflammation control and gut barrier repair
Comprehensive Microbiome Care
Our analytical services, including comprehensive stool analysis, help assess the balance of your gut microbiome, while our functional medicine approach addresses the factors that disrupt it. Learn more about the digestive conditions we treat.
FMT FAQs
What is FMT used for?
FMT is most established for preventing recurrent C. difficile infection. Its use for other conditions, such as ulcerative colitis and IBS, is still being researched.
Is FMT safe?
When performed with properly screened donor material or approved products under medical supervision, FMT is generally well tolerated. Risks are reviewed carefully before treatment.
How is FMT performed?
Depending on the product, it may be delivered by colonoscopy, enema, or oral capsules.
Are there FDA-approved microbiome therapies?
Yes. FDA-approved microbiome-based products are available for preventing recurrent C. difficile infection in eligible adults.
Can FMT help IBS or colitis?
Research is ongoing, and results have been mixed. FMT for these conditions is considered investigational.
What can I do to improve my microbiome without FMT?
Diet, targeted probiotics and prebiotics, treating infections and SIBO, reducing unnecessary antibiotics, and managing stress all support a healthier microbiome.
Ask About Microbiome Restoration in Los Angeles, CA
Learn whether FMT or another microbiome therapy is right for you. Call LA Integrative Gastroenterology & Nutrition at (310) 289-8000 to schedule a consultation.