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# Challenge Day: High baseline reading

![](https://storage.crisp.chat/users/helpdesk/website/f8a5014bbe2c5000/baseline0004_1pwgd21.jpeg)

#### 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.