Yes, we’re talking about your stool, aka poop.
You may not know that the human gut is a treasure trove of valuable resources, especially for the field of microbiome research. And you might be surprised to learn that you can actually make money from your “biological byproducts.”
The world of gut microbiome
Recently, scientists have found out that the tiny bugs living in our stomachs do a lot more than just help us digest food.
Research has shown that the gut microbiome is as influential as our genes in shaping human characteristics and is linked to a wide range of conditions including heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, digestive disorders, liver issues, allergies, and various brain-related and psychological health issues.
In fact, changes in gut bacteria can impact a person’s mood, behavior, intelligence, and even migraine headaches through the gut-brain connection.
One key technique in microbiome research is the Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT). This method is straightforward and involves moving gut bacteria from one person to another. It’s a way for scientists to explore how these bacteria influence various health issues, treatments, and diseases.
This process has shown promise in treating a range of conditions, such as infections to inflammatory bowel diseases, and even certain metabolic disorders.
For several years, FMT has shown to be very successful in curing a serious intestinal infection known as C. diff (short for Clostridioides difficile). It’s also shown potential in treating other health problems.
There are stool donor networks and companies that need high-quality stool.
HumanMicrobes is a research project that studies the microorganisms that live on the skin and in the gut of human beings. They’re looking for people under 30, especially athletes, with robust physical, mental health, and resilient gut microbiomes.
Since the gut’s health is inheritable and vital for overall well-being, they also screen the parents of donors. Because they are so selective, only about one in one thousand people qualify.
HumanMicrobes offers $500 for each stool sample provided. If you send a sample every day, you have the potential to earn up to $180,000 annually.
GoodNature is another company that pays for your stool. To be a donor, you should be between 18–50 years old, maintain a healthy weight, be a non-smoker, and have no history of gastrointestinal diseases or substance abuse. Regular donations of three to six times weekly are expected.
They have locations in Irving, California and Tempe, Arizona.
GoodNature’s compensation ranges from $25 to $75 per donation, with the possibility of earning up to $1,500 monthly. Regular donors can also receive bonuses of $250 to $500 for consistent donations over a four-week period.
The kind of people they want
Before you decide you’re ready to donate your stool for some cash, you need to know that there are certain types of people these companies look for:
- Are free from chronic illnesses, infectious diseases, and mental health conditions that could compromise their gut microbiome.
- Have gut bacteria that are resistant to common disruptions and imbalances.
- Are under 30 years old
- The gut microbiome is significantly influenced by genetics, so having a family history of good health is a positive.
Because the screening process is extensive it excludes people who:
- Have conditions like inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders can alter the gut microbiome.
- Have active infections, including sexually transmitted infections, which can be transmitted through FMT.
- Have mental health conditions, particularly those associated with gut dysbiosis, can affect the donor’s microbiome.
- Take antibiotics since they can disrupt the gut microbiome.
- Have unhealthy dietary habits and a lack of physical activity.
So how do you cash in?
If you think you qualify, there are a few steps involved:
1. Start the Process by completing an online form. This initial step is common across the board. The forms will ask for intimate details about your lifestyle, including dietary habits, exercise routines, digestive health, and medical background.
For HumanMicrobes, the form will ask about your personal health habits and digestive patterns. GoodNature requires basic personal data, such as your whereabouts, body mass, and health history.
If you pass this stage, the company will reach out for additional steps.
2. Check your eligibility health assessments are part of the qualification process. For instance, GoodNature requires a trio of satisfactory stool samples to join their program, along with regular health checks for active contributors.
3. Provide your stool samples after you’re cleared.
With HumanMicrobes, you’ll manage your own sample collection. The stool must be sealed in a bag and sent with dry ice unless it’s for a nearby receiver. Storing several samples for a collective shipment is an option.
At GoodNature, the donation happens on-site several times a week, with the whole process taking roughly 20 minutes.
The bottom line
If you’re young, healthy, and willing to contribute to scientific research, donating your fecal matter could be a way to make a difference and potentially earn some extra cash.
Also, do your research and choose a reputable organization before participating in any stool donation program.
