Prevotella/Bacteroidetes (P/B) is a group of bacteria primarily found in the human gut microbiome, classified under the phylum Bacteroidetes. The Prevotella genus includes a diverse array of species, many of which are implicated in both health and disease. Bacteroidetes, on the other hand, is a broader category encompassing various genera that play a critical role in carbohydrate fermentation and energy metabolism. Research on P/B has expanded significantly since the early 2000s, as scientists uncovered its varying abundance in different populations and its association with health outcomes, such as obesity, diabetes, and inflammatory diseases. The distinction between Prevotella-dominant and Bacteroides-dominant gut microbiomes has become a focal point in studies linking the gut microbiome to metabolic health, pointing to P/B as a valuable biomarker for assessing gut health and metabolic conditions in clinical settings.

Elevated Prevotella/Bacteroidetes (P/B) levels may indicate an increased capacity for carbohydrate fermentation and a diet rich in plant-based fibers, which can be associated with beneficial metabolic effects and improved gut health. Conversely, low levels of P/B can suggest a diet low in fiber or high in fat, potentially leading to dysbiosis and an imbalance of gut microbiota. This imbalance may contribute to gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, and could be linked to various metabolic disorders. Monitoring P/B levels can provide insights into dietary habits and gut health.

Prevotella/Bacteroidetes (P/B) is a key biomarker featured in the Gut Zoomer panel, providing insights into the microbiome composition that can influence overall health. This ratio indicates the balance between the Prevotella genus, often associated with a carbohydrate-rich diet, and the Bacteroidetes phylum, typically linked to protein and fat metabolism. Analyzing P/B levels helps practitioners assess dietary impacts on gut health, identify dysbiosis, and tailor personalized nutrition strategies to optimize gut microbiome diversity and function.