Why are my FoodMarble scores low?

Why are my scores always low and in the green?

Reviewing and tracking your FoodMarble results can help you better understand your gut and digestive-health trends. However, your results may initially seem confusing, particularly when you begin comparing breath-test readings with your meals, symptoms and other logged data.
This article explains some common reasons for low scores, what they may mean and when to contact our Support team.

You may be testing when fermentation is low

The most common explanation for a low reading is simply that your FoodMarble device detected a low level of fermentation at the time of your breath test.
Fermentation levels can change throughout the day. If you test infrequently, you may miss a rise that occurs several hours after eating. Try testing consistently at the recommended intervals after meals and into the evening to capture a more complete picture of your daily fermentation patterns.
A single low result provides only a snapshot, so focus on patterns across multiple readings rather than interpreting one score in isolation.

Your meals may contain few FODMAPs

FODMAPs are carbohydrates that can be fermented by gut microbes. If your meals contain few fermentable ingredients, your scores may remain low because less fermentation is taking place.
Fermentation is a natural part of digestion, so a low score is not automatically “good,” just as a higher score is not automatically “bad.” Your results are most useful when considered alongside the foods you have eaten and any digestive symptoms you experience.
The aim is not necessarily to keep fermentation as low as possible. Instead, look for patterns in which changes in fermentation coincide with bothersome symptoms.

Your symptoms may not be caused by fermentation

If your scores are low but you are experiencing symptoms such as bloating, consider whether fermentation is the likely trigger. Digestive symptoms can be influenced by many factors, and a change in fermentation may not always accompany them.
Continue tracking your symptoms alongside relevant factors such as meals, stress, sleep and medication. Over time, this may help you identify patterns that would not be apparent from breath readings alone.

Check your breath-test technique

Low readings can also occur if the breath-test technique is not followed correctly. Make sure you use the device according to the in-app instructions and provide a complete breath sample each time.

When should I contact FoodMarble Support?

Please contact our Support team if have concerns because:

• your scores remain consistently low across different times of day and after a variety of meals;
• your readings change suddenly and remain unusually low;
• you have difficulty completing a breath test; or
• you believe your device may not be working as expected.

Our team can help you review your results and investigate potential device-related issues.

Updated on: 04/08/2026