our most frequently asked questions

The microbiome is a community of trillions of microorganisms that live in and on our bodies, especially in the gut. These microbes play a vital role in digestion, immune function, mood regulation, and overall health. A balanced, diverse microbiome supports well-being, while imbalances have been linked to various conditions, including inflammation, anxiety, and chronic illness.

Addressing your specific microbiome imbalances starts with understanding what those imbalances are and learning the building blocks of a healthy microbiome–both of which you will explore in the Microbiome Black Belt membership. Through weekly challenges, a supportive and engaged community, and direct feedback from a certified Microbiome master, you will gain clarity about your body and how to heal your Microbiome in order to meet your overall health goals. Your success is measurable, and the Microbiome Black Belt membership is about building the right habits and knowledge base to succeed. click here for our HOW IT WORKS page

How soon you feel positive results from your membership will depend on your commitment to the Microbiome Black Belt System, but your microbiome can change within 24 to 72 hours of shifting your diet or lifestyle! The more lasting, balanced changes in health typically take 2 to 12 weeks, again depending on your consistency. Each membership tier is designed to deepen members’ understanding of the foundations of Karma G’s Microbiome Black Belt System, with feasible challenges and attainable short-term goals that will build to long-term success and sustainable changes in your microbiome’s health. 

 You should aim to eat microbiome-friendly meals 6 days per week, with 1 "cheat day." Lab analysis shows that it takes approximately 48 hours to observe positive or negative changes in the gut microbiome. Therefore, limiting "cheat days" to once a week helps prevent harmful gut microbes from growing and causing disease and discomfort in the body and mind.

A microbiome-friendly diet centers on providing ample dietary fiber, especially soluble fiber, to nourish beneficial gut bacteria. This, in turn, supports the production of essential short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and fosters a diverse and thriving gut microbiome, which is crucial for overall health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Key food groups include:

• Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables: These provide essential fuel for beneficial gut bacteria.

• Whole grains: Excellent sources of fiber and prebiotics, supporting a healthy microbiome.

• Legumes: Packed with protein, fiber and resistant starch, which nourish gut bacteria.

• Fermented foods: Introduce beneficial live bacteria (probiotics) to the gut. 

• Mushrooms: Some types contain prebiotics that feed beneficial gut bacteria, and contain Polysaccharides: These complex carbohydrates, such as beta-glucans, stimulate the growth of healthy bacteria.

• Cruciferous vegetables: Rich in fiber and unique compounds that support a healthy gut.

Certain foods can negatively impact the gut microbiome by reducing bacterial diversity, promoting the growth of harmful bacteria, and disrupting the delicate balance necessary for optimal health. These foods generally:

• Lack fiber: Fiber is essential for feeding beneficial gut bacteria, so a diet low in fiber can starve these microbes.

  • Examples: White bread, white rice, pastries made with refined flour

• Are high in refined sugars: Simple sugars can fuel the growth of detrimental bacteria and yeast, leading to an imbalance.

  • Examples: Soda, candy, sugary cereals, commercially baked goods (cakes, cookies)

• Contain unhealthy fats: Excessive saturated and trans fats can promote inflammation and hinder the growth of beneficial bacteria.

  • Examples: Fried foods, processed meats, foods with hydrogenated oils, high-fat animal meats (e.g., fatty cuts of beef, lamb, pork)

• Are heavily processed: Processed foods often contain additives, preservatives, and artificial ingredients that can harm the gut microbiome.

  • Examples: Many packaged snacks, fast food, processed cheese products, pre-made meals with artificial additives

To advance to the next belt level in the microbiome black belt membership, you'll need to have completed successfully at least 80% of all the challenge entries for your current belt level. Once you have been confirmed to have completed them, you can advance to the next belt level within your tier, and update your profile with your new belt level. 

The 3 tiers of membership are the beginning tier (white, yellow, and orange belts), followed by the intermediate tier (green, blue, and purple belts), and concluded with the advanced tier (brown and black belts). Please see our MEMBERSHIPS page for more details on pricing.  

In order to advance to the next tier of membership, in addition to 80% completion of all challenges in your belt level, you will need to complete an assessment to gauge your understanding of the microbiome black belt system, and ensure your success in the higher tier. Each tier has certain participation requirements.