Food Sensitivity Testing: Sometimes a Missing Link
Food sensitivity testing - of the many specialty tests I offer in my practice - is one of the most well known. Often patients will come to me with results of a previous test or ask that I order it for them during our very first visit. It is also a somewhat controversial topic as many healthcare providers and healthcare bodies do not endorse the use of these types of tests. The wild thing is I have seen some amazing results using food sensitivity testing within a well-rounded patient workup and treatment plan, so I continue to use them.
What is food sensitivity testing?
There are a vast array of food sensitivity tests available on the market which run the gamut in their methods and what foods are tested. The test I use is an IgG antibody tests from Alletess Labs. This is the test I have found to be the most effective, the most reasonably priced and easiest to administer.
How does the test work?
The test takes a sample of a patient's blood and tests it for IgG antibodies to many foods (the panel I order is 184 different foods). The test can be done at home using a finger stick blood sample or the patient's blood can also be drawn like a typical blood test. The report shows how much of an IgG response the sample had to each food - and grades each food based on this result. The higher the grade, the higher the reaction.
Who needs food sensitivity testing?
I typically order food sensitivity tests for patients with:
Skin problems - acne, rashes, eczema, psoriasis
Pain - chronic joint or body pain
Fatigue - constant or fatigue after eating
Digestive problems - constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas, nausea, reflux
Autoimmune disease - patients with autoimmune diseases are good candidates for this test
What happens once results are back?
The test typically takes 2 weeks to return results. Once those come in, I review them with my patients and we put together a plan. The plan usually avoids a period of avoidance of the foods that come back positive and I prescribe a supplement regimen to help restore gut health while avoiding. After that period, I prescribe a process of food reintroduction and ask that the patient record their responses to the foods. The plan takes into account the patient's unique needs and health history.
NEW! As of April 2023 I have started offering a Food Sensitivity Test Bundle which includes: One 60 min new patient visit + One 30 minute follow up + One Alletess 184 foods IgG test for $720.
To schedule, call my office or read my blog post.
