Articles on: Challenges/Discovery Plan

Food Intolerance Tests

Food Intolerance Tests with Your FoodMarble Device


Your FoodMarble device allows you to track the fermentation levels in your gut after consuming an all-natural FODMAP sample.


The FODMAP substrates included in our food intolerance tests are:

  • Fructose
  • Lactose
  • Sorbitol
  • Inulin


These are common food components that many people find hard to digest.


How FODMAPs Cause Symptoms


  • FODMAPs can pass through the stomach and small intestine without being fully digested.
  • When they reach the large intestine, gut bacteria ferment them, releasing gases.
  • This process — called fermentation — can cause bloating, cramps, pain, diarrhea, or other digestive discomfort in some people.


Why Do a FODMAP Test?


Testing your fermentation response to a specific FODMAP can help you understand whether that food component may be contributing to your symptoms.


  • FODMAP tests are optional — you can start using your device straight away by testing after regular meals.
  • However, intolerance tests can help you get clearer answers faster.
  • Over time, combining daily breath tests with food logging will reveal patterns in your digestion.


Preparing for a Test


Some preparation is required before completing a Challenge to ensure reliable results. The FoodMarble app will guide you through this.


  • During the test: Most people won’t feel any different, but some may experience temporary discomfort.
  • If you suspect difficulty digesting a FODMAP, schedule your Challenge for a day when you don’t have important plans.


What’s in the Packets?


Each FODMAP packet contains an amount of sugar naturally found in everyday foods:

  • Fructose → equivalent to 2 medium-to-large apples
  • Lactose → equivalent to 2 cups of milk
  • Inulin → equivalent to 1–1.5 Jerusalem artichokes
  • Sorbitol → equivalent to 2 servings of prunes (actually 1.7 servings, rounded up)


If you know these foods cause you discomfort, you may:

  • Skip the test altogether, or
  • Test with a smaller portion of the packet (note: results may be less accurate if you use less than the full amount).


Key Takeaway

The food intolerance tests are optional but recommended for quicker insights. Whether or not you choose to do them, you can continue logging meals and breath readings daily. Over time, your FoodMarble device will help you spot meaningful patterns and better understand your gut health.


Sources:

  • USDA
  • Medical News Today
  • Stacewicz-Sapuntzakis M, et al. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2001 May;41(4):251-86



Updated on: 21/08/2025

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