Breath Test Guide: Tips & Technique

Tips for Successful Breath Testing

If you’re new to breath testing, it’s normal to wonder if you’re doing it correctly. Don’t worry — it often takes a little practice, and every test you take helps you get closer to understanding your gut.

Here are some simple tips to make your results as accurate and useful as possible:

Before You Start

• Take your breath tests in a relaxed state - not immediately after exercise or rushing around.
• Try to test indoors where conditions are stable. Extreme environments (very cold, hot or humid) can affect your device’s performance.
• Make sure your lips and mouth are clean and dry before testing — this prevents food particles or liquid from getting into the mouthpiece.
• Sit upright, rather than reclined or lying down.

During the 3-second Countdown

• **Don't hold your device too close to your nose or mouth **as the sensors may pick up even a faint exhale.
• Keep your device a small distance from your face and bring it to your mouth slowly once ready to test.

During the Test

• Hold your device upright and straight, so your breath travels smoothly through it.
• Don't blow forcefully. A gentle, steady exhale gives the most accurate result.
• When prompted, exhale gently and consistently for 5 seconds.

👉 A helpful trick: imagine cooling hot soup on a spoon — just a soft, steady breath.

Important: Avoid Pre-Exhales

Our engineers have recently identified “pre-exhales” in some device data.

What is a pre-exhale?

A pre-exhale happens when the device picks up your breath before the actual test starts — usually because it’s held too close to your mouth or nose during the countdown.

This can cause the device to record part of an earlier breath, which may affect accuracy.

How to avoid it:

• Keep the device slightly away from your face during the 3-second countdown.
• When the app says “Start”, bring the device to your mouth and begin a gentle, steady exhale.

Even this small adjustment can noticeably improve accuracy right away.

Updated on: 25/11/2025