A combined H2 + CH4 increase of 12 ppm or more may be suggestive of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth.

Breath analysis standards for abnormal tests are suggested if an increase of 12ppm for Hydrogen (H2), 12ppm for Methane (CH4), or a combined 12ppm for Hydrogen (H2) & Methane (CH4) is detected. Only the treating clinician is able to determine if there are additional factors that could have a material impact on the results of this analysis.

A diagnosis can only be obtained from a medical professional that combines clinical information with the results of this breath analysis.
The results of this Hydrogen (H2) & Methane (CH4) breath test should be utilized as a guideline only.

The marker “Hydrogen increase over baseline by 90 minutes” is a key diagnostic indicator, used to identify excessive hydrogen gas production caused by bacterial fermentation in the small intestine. Normally, hydrogen is produced in minimal amounts in the small bowel, but when bacteria are present in excess—typically due to SIBO—they begin fermenting ingested sugars like lactulose prematurely, releasing hydrogen that is absorbed into the bloodstream and exhaled in the breath. A rise in hydrogen levels of 20 parts per million (ppm) or more above baseline within the first 90 minutes is considered a positive result for hydrogen-dominant SIBO. This overgrowth can contribute to chronic gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea, and nutrient malabsorption. Identifying an early hydrogen rise helps differentiate SIBO from other gut disorders and supports personalized treatment plans using targeted antimicrobials, antibiotics, or dietary interventions such as the low FODMAP diet to restore microbial balance and improve digestive health.

Peak Methane (CH4) Production is a critical marker in NutriPATH’s 2-Hour SIBO Breath Test, used to detect methane-producing microbes in the small intestine, particularly methanogenic archaea such as Methanobrevibacter smithii. Unlike hydrogen, which is produced by bacteria fermenting carbohydrates, methane is formed when certain archaea consume hydrogen and convert it into methane gas. A methane level of ≥10 parts per million (ppm) at any point during the 2-hour breath test is considered a positive result for methane-dominant SIBO or Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth (IMO).

Penicillium is a genus of fungi, which commonly grows on many foodstuffs such as cocoa beans, coffee beans, cassava flour, cereals, fish, peanuts, dried fruits, wine, poultry eggs and milk.

Penicillium Chrysogenum is a widely studied species of Penicillium that is most famous for being a source of penicillin and several other antibiotics.

The Penicillium Chrysogenum/Notatum IgG Test provides valuable insights into mold exposure and its potential health impacts. However, results should be interpreted cautiously and in conjunction with clinical symptoms and environmental assessments. This test is one tool among many in diagnosing and managing mold-related health conditions, helping healthcare providers make informed decisions about patient care and environmental safety.