We interviewed Ms. K, who underwent a fecal microbiota transplant (FMT).
We heard about the reasons people decided to undergo fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) despite facing various health concerns—including irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, autism spectrum disorder (ASD), allergies, collagen diseases, insomnia, and unexplained symptoms—as well as the subsequent changes in their lifestyle habits and their actual experiences.
Profile
・Disease Name:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome / Constipation / Autism Spectrum Disorder / Atopic Dermatitis & Allergies / General Collagen Diseases / Insomnia / Somatic Symptom Disorder
・Migration Period: March 27, 2024 to April 24, 2024
・Number of transplants: 3-session course
・Transplant-performing medical institution: Grace Medical Clinic
Interviews
First, how did you learn about fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT)?
Mr. K: While researching the causes of my health issues, I learned about fecal microbiota transplantation as a treatment option. I didn’t have any reservations about the idea of transplanting someone else’s gut bacteria. It reminded me a bit of a vaccine, and I found it quite interesting. While searching for places in Japan where I could receive the transplant, I came across the website for the Gut Flora Transplantation Clinical Research Association. That led me to think, “Is there anywhere near my home where I can get gut flora transplantation?” That’s why I decided to visit Grace Medical Clinic.
What was the deciding factor that made you actually decide to undergo the transplant?
Mr. K: After learning about Dr. Luc Montagnier’s theory—that various unexplained illnesses are likely caused by bacteria undetectable even under a microscope—and his research showing E. coli’s involvement in various bodily dysfunctions, I thought, “I’d like to try a transplant.” While the cost isn’t exactly cheap, I decided to go for it if it offered a chance at a fundamental cure.
You visited a medical institution and underwent an intestinal flora balance test. How did you feel about the test results?
K: I’d suspected I had ASD for some time, and the stool test results indicated the possibility. I’ve always struggled with communication and often found it difficult to understand what others were saying. Since my symptoms weren’t severe, getting a diagnosis proved challenging. While the transplant didn’t drastically change my sensory sensitivities, it did reduce the pain, making things less unbearable than before.
After actually undergoing the transplant, what were the main changes you experienced?
Mr. K: Before the transplant, I suffered from conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, skin disorders, and chronic fatigue. I didn’t notice any major changes during the transplant period. After the transplant, I felt temporarily less fatigued for a few days, but then I experienced fatigue again. Additionally, I sometimes had headaches immediately after the transplant, but they resolved within a day.
However, after the transplant, I feel healthier, with less pressure and pain around my anus than before. My obsessive thoughts and excessive worry have also decreased. Regarding muscle and joint pain, I’ve become able to endure it without taking pain medication. However, there has been no significant change in my ASD symptoms or skin symptoms.
Additionally, Dr. Ito advised me to “make sure to drink plenty of water,” and I feel my health has improved by continuing to do so.
However, since I had been continuously taking supplements and other items mentioned in books on functional medicine alongside the transplant, it’s unclear how much of the post-transplant changes were attributable to the transplant itself.
Are there any other self-care practices or lifestyle habits you are currently implementing?
K: I take supplements and probiotics daily. I consciously focus on a vegetable-centered diet and make sure to drink plenty of water. Since I tend to stay up late, I want to try things like not bringing my smartphone into the bedroom.
After undergoing the transplant, what are your overall impressions and thoughts about the future?
Mr. K: I think the transplant was a good decision. While not all symptoms improved dramatically, the significant reduction in certain discomforts—like pain during bowel movements—has been a big help. Regarding the transplant, I plan to continue with regular sessions going forward.
While transplant costs may seem high, I believe it is suitable for those seeking a fundamental cure for their illness.
What Mr. K is doing to improve his gut health
• A diet centered around vegetables
• Drink plenty of water
• Continuous intake of supplements and probiotics
Finally.
Mr. K has tried various methods in an effort to alleviate his long-standing discomfort. While receiving a fecal microbiota transplant didn’t instantly resolve all his symptoms, he reports feeling “less miserable than before”—noting reduced anal pain and a decrease in obsessive thoughts and excessive worry.
On the other hand, since supplements and nutritional management are also being implemented simultaneously, it is unclear exactly which approach is contributing to what degree of effect. Nevertheless, Mr. K himself considers this “one aspect of fundamental care for the disease” and is considering regular transplants going forward.
Some individuals who have undergone fecal microbiota transplantation, like Mr. K, report feeling noticeable changes, while others report little change. In either case, we hope this procedure serves as an opportunity to review daily habits—such as adjusting your diet, staying well-hydrated, and improving sleep quality—and consciously embrace the idea of “living in harmony with your gut bacteria.”
If you are interested in fecal microbiota transplantation, it is advisable to first consult a specialist physician to discuss and determine the method best suited to your constitution and lifestyle.
Mr. K, thank you very much for sharing your valuable insights with us this time.
Important Notes Regarding Testimonials
- This article is based solely on the personal experiences of patients and their families and does not guarantee the effectiveness or course of treatment.
- The progression of symptoms, response to treatment, and degree of recovery vary from person to person, and not all patients will achieve the same results.
- When selecting or implementing a treatment method, be sure to consult thoroughly with your primary physician or specialist. Make your decision after comprehensively considering your own medical condition, constitution, lifestyle, and other factors.
- The treatment details described in this article (transplant method, course, duration, cost, etc.) are specific to a particular patient’s case and may not apply identically to all medical institutions or situations.
- This testimonial is published at the request of the patient and their family, with care taken to ensure individuals cannot be identified.
