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).

The Peanut marker measures IgG antibodies to proteins found in peanuts. Results are reported as none detected, very low, low, moderate, or high. These levels reflect immune exposure and recognition rather than a true peanut allergy. Interpretation should consider symptom patterns, frequency of intake, and appropriate allergy evaluation when necessary.