Stool colour can provide important clues about digestion, gut health, and how well the body is absorbing nutrients. Changes in colour may signal issues like bile flow problems, infections, or imbalances in the gut microbiome.

Stool form is an important indicator of digestive health and how efficiently the body is processing food and waste. Abnormal stool shapes can signal issues like dehydration, gut inflammation, slow or fast transit time, or imbalances in the microbiome.

The presence of mucus in stool can be a sign of irritation or inflammation in the gut lining. While small amounts can be normal, larger or frequent amounts may indicate conditions like infections, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Occult blood refers to hidden blood in the stool that isn’t visible to the eye but can signal bleeding somewhere in the digestive tract. Its presence may indicate conditions like polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, or early signs of colorectal cancer, making it an important marker for further investigation.

Faecal calprotectin is a marker of gut inflammation, helping to differentiate between inflammatory conditions like Crohn’s disease and non-inflammatory issues like IBS. Elevated levels suggest active inflammation and may warrant further investigation.

Pancreatic elastase tells us how well your pancreas is producing digestive enzymes. Low levels mean you might not be digesting food properly, leading to gut symptoms and nutrient problems.

Faecal Secretory IgA measures how strong your gut’s immune defense is — acting like a “security system” for your digestive tract. Too low or too high can signal imbalance or stress in the gut.

Zonulin controls how tightly your gut cells are sealed. Elevated levels suggest your gut lining is “leaky,” letting unwanted substances into the body, which can drive inflammation and immune problems.

β-Glucuronidase is a gut enzyme that can cause toxins and hormones to be recycled instead of eliminated. High levels suggest a need to support detoxification and balance gut bacteria.

Steatocrit measures how much fat is in your stool. High levels suggest your body isn’t digesting or absorbing fats properly, which could affect energy levels, nutrient status, and gut health.

α-Transglutaminase IgA helps detect if your gut immune system is reacting to gluten. High levels suggest gluten sensitivity or possible coeliac-related gut damage, even if blood tests are normal.

Imbalances in gut pH influence short chain fatty acid production and their effect.

Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are produced by gut bacteria when they ferment fiber, helping to nourish the gut lining, control inflammation, and support immune health. Healthy SCFA levels are linked to better digestion, stronger gut barriers, and lower risk of chronic diseases.

Butyrate is a short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria when they break down dietary fiber. It plays a crucial role in nourishing colon cells, reducing inflammation, strengthening the gut barrier, and supporting overall digestive and immune health.

Acetate is the most abundant short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria during the fermentation of fiber. It supports gut health, helps regulate appetite and metabolism, and acts as a building block for other beneficial compounds in the body.

Propionate is a short-chain fatty acid produced by gut bacteria during the fermentation of dietary fiber. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, supports metabolism, and has anti-inflammatory effects that benefit both gut and overall health.

Valerate is a lesser-known short-chain fatty acid produced in small amounts by gut bacteria during the fermentation of fiber and protein. It plays a minor role in supporting gut health and may help maintain a balanced microbial environment.

The Firmicutes:Bacteroidetes ratio is a key indicator of how well your gut is supporting digestion, metabolism, and overall health. A balanced ratio helps maintain a healthy weight, strong immunity, and a resilient gut environment.

Bacteroidetes are a major group of gut bacteria that help break down complex carbohydrates and support digestion. A healthy level of Bacteroidetes is linked to better gut health and metabolism.

Firmicutes are a major group of gut bacteria involved in breaking down dietary fats and supporting energy absorption. Their balance with other bacteria, like Bacteroidetes, plays an important role in digestion, metabolism, and overall gut health.

Actinobacteria are a group of beneficial gut bacteria that help break down complex plant fibers and support gut and immune health. They include important species like Bifidobacteria, which play a key role in maintaining a balanced microbiome.

Proteobacteria are a group of gut bacteria that include both normal residents and potential pathogens. Elevated levels are often linked to gut imbalance, inflammation, and digestive issues.

Verrucomicrobia are a smaller group of gut bacteria, best known for including Akkermansia muciniphila, a species linked to gut lining health and reduced inflammation. Healthy levels of Verrucomicrobia are associated with better metabolism, immune balance, and gut barrier function.

Euryarchaeota are a group of microorganisms called archaea, naturally found in the human gut, that help break down food and produce gases like methane. While some are normal, an overgrowth can contribute to symptoms like bloating, constipation, or SIBO.

Bacteroides fragilis is a common gut bacterium that plays an important role in breaking down complex molecules and supporting immune system development. In healthy amounts, it helps maintain gut balance, but overgrowth can sometimes contribute to inflammation or infection.

Bifidobacterium adolescentis is a beneficial gut bacterium that helps break down complex carbohydrates and produce important short-chain fatty acids. It supports digestive health, immune balance, and may help reduce inflammation in the gut.

Bifidobacterium bifidum is a beneficial gut bacterium that supports digestion, strengthens the gut barrier, and helps regulate the immune system. It is one of the first bacteria to colonise the gut after birth and plays a key role in maintaining overall gut and immune health throughout life.

Bifidobacterium breve is a beneficial gut bacterium known for helping digest complex carbohydrates and producing nutrients like short-chain fatty acids. It supports a healthy gut environment, boosts immune function, and may help protect against harmful bacteria and inflammation.

Bifidobacterium longum is a beneficial gut bacterium that helps break down dietary fiber, produce important nutrients, and support immune health. It also plays a role in reducing inflammation and protecting the gut lining, contributing to overall digestive wellbeing.

Enterococcus species are a group of bacteria that naturally live in the gut and help with digestion and maintaining a balanced microbiome. However, if they overgrow or move outside the gut, they can sometimes cause infections or contribute to gut imbalance.

Escherichia species, including Escherichia coli, are common gut bacteria that play a role in nutrient absorption and maintaining a healthy gut environment. While most strains are harmless and even beneficial, some can cause infections or digestive symptoms if they become imbalanced.

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a beneficial probiotic bacterium that helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, supports digestion, and boosts immune function. It also produces lactic acid, which helps protect the gut from harmful microbes and promotes overall digestive health.

Lactobacillus casei is a beneficial probiotic bacterium that supports healthy digestion, helps break down lactose, and strengthens the gut’s natural defenses. It also contributes to maintaining a balanced gut environment and promoting immune health.

Lactobacillus delbrueckii is a beneficial bacterium commonly found in fermented foods and the gut, where it helps support digestion and maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. It produces lactic acid, which protects the gut environment and promotes overall digestive health.

Lactobacillus plantarum is a beneficial probiotic bacterium that supports digestion, strengthens the gut barrier, and helps reduce inflammation. It also plays a role in protecting the gut against harmful microbes and promoting overall gut and immune health.

Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a well-studied probiotic bacterium known for supporting digestive health, boosting immune function, and helping protect against harmful bacteria. It is also commonly used to help manage symptoms like diarrhea, gut inflammation, and food sensitivities.

Lactobacillus salivarius is a beneficial probiotic bacterium that helps maintain a healthy balance of gut and oral microbiota. It supports digestion, strengthens the immune system, and produces compounds that help protect against harmful bacteria.

Clostridium species are a diverse group of bacteria naturally found in the gut, with some strains playing important roles in fiber breakdown and short-chain fatty acid production. However, certain Clostridium strains can become harmful if they overgrow, potentially leading to inflammation or digestive disturbances.

Oxalobacter formigenes is a beneficial gut bacterium that helps break down oxalates, compounds found in many plant foods. By reducing oxalate levels, it may help lower the risk of kidney stone formation and support overall urinary and gut health.

Akkermansia muciniphila is a beneficial gut bacterium that plays a key role in maintaining the gut lining and supporting a healthy immune response. Higher levels of Akkermansia are associated with better metabolism, reduced inflammation, and improved gut barrier function.

Faecalibacterium prausnitzii is one of the most important beneficial bacteria in the gut, known for producing butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that nourishes the gut lining and reduces inflammation. High levels of this bacterium are associated with better gut health, stronger immunity, and protection against chronic diseases.

Bacillus species are a group of bacteria commonly found in soil, food, and the human gut, with some strains supporting digestion and gut balance. However, certain Bacillus strains can become opportunistic and cause infections if the immune system is weakened or the gut microbiome is disrupted.

Enterococcus faecalis is a type of bacteria naturally found in the human gut that helps with digestion and maintaining microbial balance. However, if it overgrows or spreads outside the gut, it can cause infections, particularly in the urinary tract or bloodstream.

Enterococcus faecium is a gut bacterium that normally supports digestion and microbial balance but can become harmful if it overgrows. It is also known for its ability to cause infections outside the gut, particularly in hospital settings where antibiotic resistance can be a concern.

Morganella species are bacteria that are part of the normal gut flora but can become opportunistic pathogens if they overgrow. In some cases, they may contribute to infections, digestive upset, or imbalances in the gut microbiome.

Pseudomonas species are bacteria commonly found in the environment and sometimes in the gut, where they are usually harmless in small amounts. However, overgrowth can lead to infections or contribute to gut imbalance, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause infections in the gut, lungs, and other parts of the body, especially in people with weakened immune systems. In the gut, its overgrowth may contribute to inflammation, digestive issues, and microbial imbalance.

Staphylococcus species are bacteria commonly found on the skin, in the nose, and occasionally in the gut, where they are usually harmless. However, under certain conditions, they can overgrow and contribute to infections or gut imbalance.

Staphylococcus aureus is a bacteria that can live harmlessly on the skin and in the gut but can cause infections if it overgrows or enters the bloodstream. In the gut, its presence at high levels may be linked to inflammation, digestive symptoms, and disruption of the microbiome.

Streptococcus agalactiae, also known as Group B Streptococcus (GBS), is a bacterium that can naturally exist in the gut and reproductive tract. While often harmless in healthy adults, it can sometimes cause infections, particularly in newborns, pregnant women, or individuals with weakened immune systems.

Streptococcus anginosus is a type of bacteria normally found in the mouth, gut, and respiratory tract, often without causing harm. However, if it overgrows or moves to other areas, it can contribute to infections such as abscesses or inflammatory conditions.

Streptococcus mutans is a bacterium commonly found in the mouth and is best known for its role in tooth decay by producing acid that damages tooth enamel. Although primarily linked to oral health, it can occasionally be detected in the gut and may contribute to microbial imbalance if present in high amounts.

Streptococcus oralis is a common bacterium found in the mouth and throat that generally helps maintain a healthy balance of oral microbes. While usually harmless, it can sometimes contribute to infections if it enters the bloodstream or overgrows in vulnerable individuals.

Streptococcus salivarius is a beneficial bacterium found in the mouth and upper respiratory tract that supports oral and throat health. It helps maintain microbial balance and can protect against harmful bacteria by producing natural antimicrobial substances.

Methanobrevibacter smithii is a type of archaea commonly found in the human gut that helps break down complex carbohydrates by producing methane gas. While it plays a role in digestion, high levels have been associated with conditions like constipation and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).

Desulfovibrio piger is a sulfate-reducing bacterium found in the gut that produces hydrogen sulfide gas during digestion. In small amounts, it can be part of a normal microbiome, but overgrowth may contribute to gut inflammation, bloating, and digestive discomfort.

Enterobacter cloacae complex refers to a group of bacteria naturally found in the gut, but which can become opportunistic pathogens under certain conditions. Overgrowth or spread outside the gut may lead to infections, particularly in the urinary tract, lungs, or bloodstream.

Citrobacter species are bacteria naturally found in the gut that are usually harmless but can become opportunistic pathogens if they overgrow. In some cases, they may contribute to urinary tract infections, digestive disturbances, or gut microbiome imbalance.

Citrobacter freundii is a bacterium found in the gut and environment that is normally harmless but can cause infections if it overgrows or spreads to other parts of the body. High levels in the gut may contribute to inflammation, digestive issues, or gut dysbiosis.

Klebsiella species are bacteria commonly found in the gut, mouth, and environment that can be harmless in small amounts. However, overgrowth in the gut is linked to digestive issues, inflammation, and an increased risk of infections.

Klebsiella pneumoniae is a bacterium that can live harmlessly in the gut but is known for its ability to cause infections, particularly in the lungs, urinary tract, and bloodstream. In the gut, overgrowth may contribute to inflammation, dysbiosis, and digestive symptoms.

Prevotella copri is a type of gut bacterium involved in breaking down complex carbohydrates and fibre. While it can support digestion, an overgrowth of Prevotella copri has been linked to inflammation and conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and rheumatoid arthritis in some individuals.

Proteus species are bacteria that are part of the normal gut flora but can become opportunistic pathogens if they overgrow. In excess, they may contribute to digestive disturbances, urinary tract infections, and imbalances in the gut microbiome.

Proteus mirabilis is a bacterium that can live harmlessly in the gut but is better known for causing urinary tract infections and, occasionally, gut disturbances. Overgrowth in the gut may contribute to inflammation, dysbiosis, and digestive symptoms.

Fusobacterium species are bacteria normally found in the mouth and gut, where they help maintain microbial balance in small amounts. However, overgrowth has been linked to inflammation, periodontal disease, digestive issues, and, in some studies, an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Candida dubliniensis is a yeast that can live in the mouth, gut, and other mucosal surfaces, usually without causing problems in healthy individuals. However, overgrowth may lead to infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems or imbalanced gut flora.

Candida glabrata is a type of yeast that normally lives in small amounts on mucosal surfaces like the gut and mouth. However, overgrowth can lead to infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or disrupted gut microbiomes.

Candida intermedia is a less common yeast species that can be found in the human gut and mucosal surfaces. While typically harmless, overgrowth may contribute to gut imbalance and can cause infections, especially in those with weakened immunity.

Candida krusei is a yeast that can naturally exist in the human gut and mucous membranes but is known for its resistance to common antifungal treatments. Overgrowth of Candida krusei may lead to digestive disturbances or systemic infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.

Candida lambica is a yeast species sometimes found in the gut and mucosal surfaces, typically in small, harmless amounts. However, overgrowth can contribute to gut imbalance and may cause infections, especially in individuals with compromised immune systems.

Candida lusitaniae is a yeast that can live on mucosal surfaces like the gut and is usually harmless in healthy individuals. However, it can cause infections if it overgrows, particularly in people with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions.

Candida parapsilosis is a yeast commonly found on the skin and in the gut that is usually harmless in small amounts. However, overgrowth can lead to infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems or disrupted gut balance.

Candida albicans is a common yeast naturally found in the gut, mouth, and other mucosal surfaces, where it usually lives harmlessly in balance with other microbes. However, overgrowth can cause infections like thrush, yeast infections, or contribute to gut imbalances and digestive symptoms.

Candida famata is a yeast that can be found in the gut and other mucosal surfaces, typically without causing harm. However, in cases of immune weakness or gut imbalance, it may overgrow and contribute to infections or digestive disturbances.

Candida kefyr is a yeast that normally lives in the gut and on mucosal surfaces, typically without causing problems. However, when gut balance is disrupted, Candida kefyr can overgrow and may contribute to digestive symptoms or infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

Candida lipolytica is a yeast that can naturally exist in the environment and occasionally in the human gut. While generally harmless, it can overgrow in individuals with weakened immunity or disrupted gut balance, potentially leading to digestive or systemic infections.

Geotrichum species are fungi commonly found in the environment and sometimes in the human gut and mouth, usually without causing harm. However, overgrowth can contribute to gut imbalance or infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

Rhodotorula species are pigmented yeasts that are commonly found in the environment and can occasionally colonise the human gut or mucosal surfaces. While usually harmless, they can cause infections if they overgrow, particularly in people with weakened immune systems.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae, often known as baker’s or brewer’s yeast, is commonly found in the human gut and is usually considered beneficial. It can support digestion and gut health, but in some cases, overgrowth may contribute to digestive symptoms or inflammation.

Cryptosporidium is a microscopic parasite that can infect the intestines and cause watery diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and dehydration. It spreads through contaminated water, food, or surfaces and is a common cause of gastrointestinal illness worldwide.

Entamoeba histolytica is a parasitic amoeba that can infect the intestines and cause symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and, in severe cases, liver abscesses. It is typically spread through contaminated food or water, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.

Giardia intestinalis is a parasite that infects the small intestine and can cause diarrhea, bloating, stomach cramps, and fatigue. It is commonly transmitted through contaminated water, food, or contact with infected surfaces.

Blastocystis hominis is a common intestinal parasite that can live harmlessly in the gut but may cause symptoms like diarrhoea, bloating, and abdominal discomfort in some people. Its role in gut health is still being studied, as it can be found in both healthy individuals and those with digestive issues.

Dientamoeba fragilis is a microscopic parasite that can infect the large intestine and may cause symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating, and fatigue. It is often transmitted through close contact or contaminated food and water, though some people can carry it without symptoms.

Endolimax nana is a microscopic amoeba found in the human gut that is usually considered harmless but can sometimes be associated with mild digestive symptoms. It is generally acquired through ingestion of contaminated food or water.

Entamoeba coli is a non-pathogenic amoeba commonly found in the human gut that does not cause disease. Its presence typically indicates exposure to contaminated food or water, but it usually does not require treatment.

Pentatrichomonas hominis is a protozoan parasite found in the large intestine, generally considered non-harmful in healthy individuals. However, in some cases, it may be associated with mild digestive symptoms like diarrhoea or abdominal discomfort, particularly in people with weakened gut health.

Ancylostoma duodenale (hookworm) infects the intestines, causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and anemia, typically through contact with contaminated soil.

Ascaris lumbricoides, a large roundworm, causes abdominal pain, bloating, and nutrient malabsorption, spreading through contaminated food, water, or soil.

Trichuris trichiura (whipworm) infects the large intestine, causing diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and anemia, typically from contaminated food or soil.

Enterocytozoon species (microsporidia) are parasites that infect the intestines, causing diarrhoea and digestive upset, especially in those with weakened immune systems.

Strongyloides species are roundworms causing chronic infections with abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and skin rashes, typically spread through contaminated soil.

Necator americanus, a hookworm, infects the intestines, causing abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and anemia, typically from skin contact with contaminated soil.

Enterobius vermicularis (pinworm) causes itching around the anus, spreading through contaminated hands, surfaces, and bedding, especially in children.

Hymenolepis species are small tapeworms causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss, typically from contaminated food, water, or surfaces.

Taenia species are tapeworms from undercooked beef or pork, causing digestive symptoms and, in rare cases, serious complications if larvae spread.

Aeromonas hydrophila is a bacterium commonly found in freshwater and sometimes in the human gut, where it can cause gastrointestinal infections. It is typically associated with symptoms like diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and, in some cases, more severe infections in vulnerable individuals.

Campylobacter species are bacteria commonly found in contaminated food, particularly poultry, and can cause foodborne infections. Infections typically lead to symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and fever, and can be more severe in people with weakened immune systems.

Clostridium difficile Toxin A is a toxin produced by Clostridium difficile bacteria, which is a major cause of healthcare-associated gastrointestinal infections. The toxin causes inflammation in the intestines, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, colitis or toxic megacolon.

Clostridium difficile Toxin B is a potent toxin produced by Clostridium difficile, contributing to severe gastrointestinal infections. It causes significant damage to the intestinal lining, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and potentially life-threatening conditions such as colitis.

Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) is a type of pathogenic E. coli that can cause chronic diarrhea, particularly in young children and immunocompromised individuals. It is characterised by its ability to adhere to the intestinal lining in a characteristic pattern, leading to inflammation and digestive symptoms.

Enteropathogenic E. coli (EPEC) is a strain of E. coli that causes severe diarrhoea, especially in infants and young children. It infects the intestinal lining, leading to inflammation, dehydration, and symptoms such as stomach cramps and vomiting.

E. coli O157 is a dangerous strain of E. coli that can cause severe gastrointestinal illness, including bloody diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting. In some cases, it can lead to complications like haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), which affects the kidneys and can be life-threatening.

Hypervirulent Clostridium difficile is a more aggressive strain of the bacteria that produces toxins, leading to severe gastrointestinal infections, including antibiotic-associated colitis. This strain is associated with higher rates of recurrence, increased severity, and complications like toxic megacolon and perforated bowel.

Enteroinvasive E. coli (EIEC) and Shigella are bacteria that can invade the intestinal lining, causing severe dysentery-like symptoms, including bloody diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and fever. Both pathogens are transmitted through contaminated food or water and can cause significant intestinal inflammation.

Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) produces toxins known as LT (heat-labile) and ST (heat-stable), which cause travelers’ diarrhea by disrupting the gut’s normal function. These toxins lead to watery diarrhoea, abdominal cramping, and nausea, often resulting from contaminated food or water.

Salmonella species are bacteria that can cause foodborne illnesses, leading to symptoms such as diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps. They are typically transmitted through contaminated food, especially raw meat, eggs, or unpasteurised dairy products.

Shiga-like Toxin E. coli (STEC) produces toxins that damage the intestinal lining, causing symptoms such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to complications like haemolytic uraemic syndrome (HUS), which can affect the kidneys and be life-threatening.

Vibrio species are bacteria commonly found in marine environments and can cause foodborne infections, particularly through the consumption of undercooked seafood. Infections may lead to symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps, with some species causing more severe conditions like cholera.

Yersinia species are bacteria that can cause gastrointestinal infections, leading to symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea. Yersinia enterocolitica, in particular, is commonly transmitted through contaminated food, especially undercooked pork, and can cause more severe illness in vulnerable individuals.

BabA is a virulence factor that enables H. pylori to bind to the stomach lining, promoting infection and increasing the risk of ulcers and gastric cancer.

OipA is a virulence factor that helps H. pylori adhere to the stomach lining, contributing to inflammation and increasing the risk of ulcers and gastric cancer.

VirB is a virulence factor that helps H. pylori inject harmful proteins into host cells, contributing to inflammation and enhancing its ability to cause stomach ulcers and cancer.

CagA is a virulence factor in H. pylori that disrupts stomach cell signaling, leading to inflammation, ulcers, and an increased risk of gastric cancer.

IceA is a virulence factor in H. pylori that contributes to inflammation and enhances the bacterium’s ability to persist in the stomach, potentially leading to ulcers and gastric cancer.

VacA is a virulence factor in H. pylori that disrupts the stomach lining by inducing cell death and inflammation, contributing to the development of ulcers and gastric cancer.

VirD is a virulence factor in H. pylori that plays a role in the bacterium’s ability to transfer DNA to host cells, enhancing its capacity to cause infection and contribute to gastric diseases.

Adenovirus 40/41 are viruses that can infect the gastrointestinal tract and cause diarrhea, especially in young children. They are typically associated with viral gastroenteritis and can contribute to digestive symptoms like cramping and dehydration.

Norovirus GI/II are common viruses that cause gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach pain. They are highly contagious and a frequent cause of outbreaks of stomach flu.

Rotavirus A is a virus that primarily causes severe diarrhoea and vomiting, especially in infants and young children. It is a leading cause of viral gastroenteritis worldwide and can lead to dehydration if not managed properly.

Sapovirus is a virus that can cause gastroenteritis, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. It is most common in children but can affect people of all ages, especially in group settings like schools and care facilities.

Astrovirus is a virus that causes mild to moderate gastroenteritis, particularly in young children, the elderly, and those with weakened immune systems. It typically leads to symptoms like diarrhoea, nausea, and stomach pain.