What is Food Sensitivity?
Food sensitivity can result from your body reacting badly to certain foods. Often the foods we include regularly in our diet or the foods we crave may cause us a problem. Research has shown that food sensitivity can be linked to IgG antibodies produced when these ‘problem’ foods are eaten.
IgG stands for Immunoglobulin (type G). Immunoglobulins are proteins that function as antibodies produced by the immune system in response to foreign bodies (infections, unwanted materials) entering the body. There are several different types of immunoglobulins with IgA, IgE, IgG, IgM being the most well-known.
These antibodies are part of your normal immune system, but if the immune or digestive system is not working optimally, their presence may provoke a wide range of symptoms.
How do I know if I have a food sensitivity?
Ask yourself if you have any of the following chronic unpleasant symptoms:
- Bloating
- Constipation and Diarrhoea
- Flatulence
- Headaches or Migraines
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Lethargy
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps / abdominal pain
What can I do about it?
Talk to your healthcare professional about doing a Food sensitivity test. Many people will experience an improvement in symptoms and health after changing their diet in response to their Food sensitivity results. Like any diagnostic test, Food sensitivity testing will only produce meaningful results when you are having symptoms. Some symptoms of food sensitivity may be due to other health issues, and it is important to see your doctor to rule these out.
What should I do after the tests?
Your healthcare professional will work with you to create a diet which eliminates your problems with foods, offers healthy alternatives, and guidance on how to re-introduce foods.
Who are the tests suitable for?
- Anybody who is 2 years and older.
- A food intolerance test is not recommended during pregnancy as the immune system is suppressed. However, 4-6 weeks after giving birth should be ok.
- Customers should avoid the use of immunosuppressant medication if possible if performing these tests, as they may have an impact on the results.
- Serum blood samples are always preferable over a finger prick.
What food sensitivity tests do you offer at The Health Suite?
Here at The Health Suite, we have handpicked two of the best food sensitivity tests the results of which we could apply as an integral tool to help guide nutritional plans.
The advantages of each test can be found in each associated section. Please book an appointment with either our functional medicine doctor or nutritionist if you are not sure which one you need.
Common Q&A about food Sensitivity
Food sensitivity, often referred to as food intolerance, is a negative reaction to a food that does not involve the immune system, unlike food allergies. Symptoms can include digestive issues, headaches, fatigue, and skin problems, often occurring hours or days after consumption.
Food allergies involve an immune response that can lead to severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis. Food sensitivities typically cause milder symptoms and are not life-threatening. Allergies can be diagnosed through skin tests or blood tests, while sensitivities often require an elimination diet or symptom tracking.
Common food sensitivities include lactose (found in dairy), gluten (found in wheat and other grains), histamine (found in aged foods), and certain food additives like sulfites. Other foods like soy, eggs, and shellfish can also cause sensitivities in some individuals.
Symptoms can vary widely but may include bloating, gas, diarrhea, abdominal pain, headaches, fatigue, skin rashes, and joint pain. These symptoms often develop gradually and can be confusing, as they may resemble other health issues.
To identify a food sensitivity, you can keep a food diary to track what you eat and any symptoms you experience. An elimination diet, where you remove suspected foods for some time and then reintroduce them, can also help pinpoint sensitivities.
An elimination diet involves removing certain foods from your diet for several weeks and then gradually reintroducing them one at a time. This helps identify which foods may be causing sensitivity symptoms. It’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting an elimination diet.
Yes, food sensitivities can develop at any age and may change over time. Some individuals may outgrow sensitivities, while others may develop new ones. Factors such as changes in diet, gut health, and overall health can influence this.
There are various tests marketed for food sensitivity, including blood tests and skin prick tests. However, these tests are not always reliable. The most effective way to identify food sensitivities is through an elimination diet and careful monitoring of symptoms.
If you suspect a food sensitivity, consider consulting a healthcare provider or registered dietitian. They can guide you through an elimination diet, help interpret symptoms, and ensure you’re maintaining a balanced diet.
Managing food sensitivities typically involves avoiding trigger foods, reading food labels carefully, and finding suitable substitutes. A registered dietitian can help create a balanced meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while accommodating your sensitivities.