Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026
11:02
The Use of an Automated System (GreenFeed) to Monitor Enteric Methane and Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Ruminant Animals
Published on: September 7, 2015
Methane on breath testing is associated with constipation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
David Kunkel1, Robert J Basseri, Marc D Makhani
1GI Motility Program, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, 8730 Alden Drive, Thalians Building, 2nd Floor East, Los Angeles, CA, 90048, USA.
Digestive Diseases and Sciences
|February 3, 2011
Summary
Methane detected via breath test is significantly linked to constipation, including in cases of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). This finding suggests breath testing and methane detection could aid in diagnosing and treating constipation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiome Research
- Digestive Health
Background:
- Growing evidence links methane production to constipation severity.
- Antibiotic treatment has shown efficacy in improving constipation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze the evidence on the association between methane and constipation.
- To assess the diagnostic utility of breath testing for methane in constipation.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of MEDLINE and Embase databases.
- Meta-analysis of nine studies (1,277 subjects) assessing methane via breath test in constipated individuals.
- Systematic review of eight additional studies on intestinal transit in methane-producing versus non-methane-producing subjects.
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between methane on breath test and constipation (OR = 3.51).
- This association remained significant in adults and in subjects with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
- All reviewed studies demonstrated a link between methane and delayed intestinal transit.
Conclusions:
- Methane detected by breath testing is significantly associated with constipation in both IBS and functional constipation.
- Breath testing may be a valuable tool for evaluating constipation.
- Methane detection could help identify patients who may benefit from antibiotic therapy for constipation.
![Assessment of Gastric Emptying in Non-obese Diabetic Mice Using a [13C]-octanoic Acid Breath Test](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F50301.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
Related Concept Videos
01:25Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Evaluating the rectum and anus plays a crucial role in conducting a thorough physical examination of the gastrointestinal system. Although it may be uncomfortable and often embarrassing for the patient, it holds immense diagnostic value, particularly in detecting gastrointestinal diseases and abnormalities. This guide will explain how to perform this assessment using inspection and palpation methods.
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
01:30Serum Laboratory Studies, Stool Test, Breath Test
Gastrointestinal (GI) diagnostic studies are pivotal in confirming, ruling out, diagnosing, or staging various diseases, including cancers. Following diagnosis, allocating time for discussions with the patient and providing informational resources is crucial. Diagnostic assessments of the GI tract often occur in outpatient settings like endoscopy suites or GI labs. Preparation for these tests may include dietary restrictions, fasting, liquid bowel preparations, laxatives, enemas, and the...
01:21Drugs for Treatment of Constipation-Predominant IBS
Pharmacological therapies for IBS-C are designed to alleviate abdominal discomfort and enhance bowel function. In patients with IBS-C, fiber supplements may help soften stools and decrease straining, but may also lead to increased gas production and bloating. Osmotic laxatives like milk of magnesia are frequently used to soften stools and increase stool frequency in IBS-C patients. In addition, two drugs approved for use in severe IBS-C adult cases are linaclotide (Linzess) and lubiprostone...
01:07Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology
Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...
01:26Microbes and Methanogenesis
Methanogenesis is a critical microbial process in anaerobic ecosystems responsible for the biological production of methane, a potent greenhouse gas and valuable biofuel. This metabolic pathway is primarily facilitated by methanogenic archaea, which thrive in anoxic environments such as wetlands, sediments, and animal gastrointestinal tracts. The absence of oxygen in these habitats prevents aerobic respiration, thereby favoring alternative biochemical pathways for organic matter degradation.In...
01:22Drugs Affecting GI Tract Motility: Bulk-Forming and Stimulant Laxatives
Laxatives enhance bowel movements and alleviate constipation. They augment the stool's bulk, stimulate intestinal muscle contractions, draw water into the intestines, or soften the stool. There are five key types of laxatives: bulk laxatives, stimulant laxatives, osmotic laxatives, stool softeners, and lubricant laxatives.
Bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium, methylcellulose, and polycarbophil, absorb water in the intestine, increasing stool bulk and promoting bowel movement. This makes...
Bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium, methylcellulose, and polycarbophil, absorb water in the intestine, increasing stool bulk and promoting bowel movement. This makes...