Our Services
Food Allergy And Sensitivity Testing
Food allergies and sensitivities are both adverse reactions to food, but they differ significantly in causes, symptoms, and severity.
Food Allergies are an immune system reaction that occurs soon after eating a certain food. Even a tiny amount can trigger symptoms. They occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a food protein as harmful and releases chemicals like histamine (for histamine intolerance treatment, click here).
Common Allergenic Foods (the “Big 9”):
- Milk
- Eggs
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
- Soy
- Wheat
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Sesame
Symptoms (can appear within minutes to hours):
- Hives, rash, or eczema
- Swelling of lips, face, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Anaphylaxis (a potentially life-threatening reaction)
We utilize serum testing for IgE for each food for diagnosis. Once diagnosed, strict avoidance and emergency medication are advised.
Food Sensitivities (or Intolerances) are non-allergic adverse reaction to a food that doesn’t involve the immune system. These reactions are often due to difficulty digesting certain foods, enzyme deficiencies, or reactions to food additives.
Common Triggers:
- Lactose (milk sugar) → lactose intolerance
- Gluten (in celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity)
- Food additives (e.g., MSG, sulfites)
- FODMAPs (fermentable sugars in some fruits, vegetables, grains)
Symptoms (often digestive and delayed):
- Gas, bloating
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stomach cramps
- Fatigue or brain fog (in some cases)
- Headache
- Weight gain
- Skin reactions such as exzema
We utilize serum testing for IgA and IgG for each food for diagnosis. Once identified, the diet should be adjusted to avoid those foods so the lining of the gut can heal. Often times after treatment, repair and maintenance protocols, foods can be reintroduced without issues.
