Challenge Day: High baseline reading

Low Baseline Hydrogen

Before starting your FoodMarble Challenge, the app will prompt you to take a baseline breath test. Recording a low baseline hydrogen level helps us measure changes more clearly during the Challenge, so you get the most accurate results.

Your hydrogen baseline should be under 3.5 before starting. If it’s higher, don’t worry — the app will prompt you to retest after 15–20 minutes.

Methane

Unlike hydrogen, it’s fine to start your Challenge with a methane score above 3.5. This is because methane levels often stay steady even after following the preparation diet.

What to Do if Your Baseline Hydrogen Is High

Here are some simple steps that can help bring your levels down:

• Wait 1 hour after waking: Gas levels are often elevated first thing in the morning. Giving your gut a chance to “wake up” too can help.
• Brush your teeth: Oral bacteria can sometimes affect readings. A non-alcohol mouthwash with chlorhexidine can also help.
• Drink water: A glass of water can lower your baseline reading.
• Take a short walk: A gentle 15-minute walk can help reduce hydrogen levels. Be sure your breathing has returned to normal before retesting.
• Extend the prep diet: If your gut moves more slowly, you may benefit from following the low FODMAP prep diet for 48-hours instead of 24-hours.
• Test in Challenge mode: Outside of Challenge mode, the device measures hydrogen + methane together, which can give a higher reading.
• Steady breathing: Breathe slowly and evenly — like you’re gently cooling soup on a spoon.

If You’re Still Seeing High Baselines

Even after trying these steps, some people will still get higher readings — and that’s okay. You haven’t done anything wrong. That’s why the app gives you the choice to continue your Challenge anyway. After rechecking your baseline, you’ll see an option on screen to move forward.

Updated on: 09/09/2025