It is important to distinguish between food sensitivities and food allergies. Food sensitivities often involve Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies, while a food allergy test measures the body's IgE response to specific foods.
Understanding these reactions and their potential severity is crucial, and we recommend consulting healthcare providers for those who have experienced serious allergic reactions.
Allergic symptoms tend to be more severe and immediate upon exposure to allergens, unlike the delayed reactions often seen with food sensitivities.
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Understanding Food Sensitivities
What Are Food Sensitivities?
Food sensitivities are adverse reactions to certain foods that can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild discomfort to severe health issues. Unlike food allergies, which trigger an immediate immune response through Immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies, food sensitivity symptoms are often delayed, appearing up to 72 hours after consumption. These reactions can result from various factors, including:
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Genetic predisposition
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Environmental influences
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Changes in the gut microbiome
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Food Sensitivity & Cellular Nutrition
We offer a variety of test to help us identify nutrient deficiencies, food intolerance and other contributing micronutrients that may be leading to inflammation and other health indicators.
Who Is at Risk for Food Sensitivities?
Anyone can develop food sensitivities, regardless of age or overall health. However, some individuals are more susceptible, including:
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Those with a family history of allergies or intolerances
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Individuals with a compromised immune system
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People who have experienced chronic stress or trauma
Common Symptoms of Food Sensitivities
Food sensitivities can lead to a variety of symptoms that affect different parts of the body. These may include:
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Digestive issues – bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation
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Skin reactions – rashes, eczema, or acne
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Joint pain – inflammation and stiffness
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Fatigue & headaches – persistent tiredness, brain fog, and migraines
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Neurological symptoms – mood swings, anxiety, and difficulty concentrating
In some cases, food sensitivities can contribute to chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, mental health concerns, and metabolic imbalances. Identifying and managing sensitivities is essential for improving overall health and well-being.
Can You Develop Food Sensitivities as an Adult?
Yes, food sensitivities can develop at any age, including adulthood. While some individuals may have had food sensitivities since childhood, others may experience them later in life due to various factors such as changes in diet, lifestyle, or environmental exposures. Stress, hormonal changes, and exposure to new foods can all trigger food sensitivities. If you’re experiencing symptoms like digestive issues, skin rashes, or joint pain, you may have developed food sensitivity as an adult. A food sensitivity test can help identify the specific foods that may be causing your symptoms, allowing you to make informed dietary choices to improve your health.
"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom"
Food Sensitivity Testing & Cellular Nutrition
What is a Food Sensitivity Test?
A food sensitivity test is a diagnostic tool used to identify specific foods that may be causing adverse reactions in the body. Unlike food allergy tests, which measure the body’s IgE response to specific foods, food sensitivity tests measure the body’s IgG response. This response is more subtle and delayed, often appearing up to 72 hours after consumption. By identifying the foods that trigger an immune response, a food sensitivity test can help you develop a personalized diet plan to alleviate symptoms such as bloating, headaches, and fatigue. Understanding your food sensitivities can lead to better management of your overall health and well-being.
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Why Test for Food Sensitivities?
Food sensitivity testing helps pinpoint specific foods that may be triggering inflammation and adverse reactions. This is particularly useful for individuals experiencing unexplained symptoms or those seeking a personalized nutrition approach.
Our Testing Options
We offer a variety of tests to assess nutrient deficiencies, food intolerances, and other key micronutrients that may be affecting your health.
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Food Sensitivity Test
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Helps identify inflammatory-driven symptoms related to gut health, metabolism, skin health, and more.
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A food allergy test helps identify common allergens and should be interpreted with medical advice
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Cellular Nutrition Assay
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Analyzes micronutrient deficiencies to optimize overall health
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Measures antioxidant protection and oxidative stress balance
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Provides actionable insights to prevent long-term nutrient imbalances
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Bundle & Save: Food Sensitivity + Cellular Nutrition Assay
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Get both tests at a discounted rate for a comprehensive health analysis
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Receive personalized insights to guide a tailored nutrition plan
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How Does Testing Work?
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Blood draw performed in-office
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Results reviewed by experts to develop a personalized action plan
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Guidance on dietary changes to reduce inflammation and improve overall health
Understanding your body’s response to food is key to optimizing health. Identifying and addressing food sensitivities can help you reduce symptoms, prevent chronic conditions, and improve your quality of life.
Book your food sensitivity and cellular nutrition test today to take control of your health!
Testing Methods
Diagnosing food sensitivities involves several testing methods, each with its own approach to identifying problematic foods. Here are some common methods:
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Elimination Diets: This method involves removing common trigger foods from your diet for a while and monitoring symptoms. However, it is important to be aware that restricted dieting can lead to disordered eating behavior, especially for those suffering from or recovering from eating disorders. Gradually reintroducing these foods can help identify which ones cause adverse reactions.
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Food Sensitivity Tests: These tests measure the body’s immune response to specific foods and can be conducted through blood tests or stool tests. They provide a detailed analysis of how your immune system reacts to various foods.
Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the best testing method for your specific needs and health status. They can guide you through the process and help you understand the results.​​​​​​​​​​
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Test Results and Interpretation
Interpreting food sensitivity test results can be complex and requires the expertise of a healthcare professional. The results typically indicate the level of immune response to specific foods, which can range from mild to severe.
When interpreting test results, several factors need to be considered:
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Severity of the Immune Response: A higher immune response indicates a greater sensitivity to the food.
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Type of Immune Response: Different types of immune responses, such as IgG or IgE, can indicate different types of sensitivities.
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Presence of Other Health Conditions: Certain health conditions, such as celiac disease or autoimmune disorders, can affect the interpretation of test results.
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Risk Factors: Individual risk factors, including age, sex, health status, and specific risk factors associated with certain diseases, should be considered to ensure effective health monitoring and accurate interpretation of test results.
A healthcare professional can help you understand your test results and develop a personalized plan to manage your food sensitivities. This tailored approach ensures that you address your specific needs and improve your overall health.
Using Test Results with an Elimination Diet
Once you receive your food sensitivity test results, you can use them to develop a personalized elimination diet plan. An elimination diet involves removing specific foods from your diet for some time to alleviate symptoms. By eliminating foods that trigger an immune response, you can reduce inflammation and improve your overall health. A food sensitivity test provides a clear picture of which foods to eliminate and for how long. It’s recommended to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to develop a personalized elimination diet plan based on your test results. This approach ensures that you address your specific needs and achieve optimal health outcomes.
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Managing Food Sensitivities
Managing food sensitivities requires a comprehensive approach that involves dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and stress management. Here are some strategies to help you manage food sensitivities:
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Elimination Diets: Remove trigger foods from your diet for some time and monitor symptoms. This helps identify which foods cause adverse reactions. If you are suffering from or recovering from an eating disorder, consult a medical practitioner before making any dietary changes.
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Food Rotation: Rotate foods to minimize exposure to trigger foods and reduce the risk of developing new sensitivities.
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Gut Healing: Focus on healing the gut through probiotics, prebiotics, and other nutrients that support gut health.
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Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or yoga, to minimize stress and its impact on your health.
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Seek Professional Help: Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs.
Remember, managing food sensitivities is an ongoing process that requires patience, persistence, and self-care. By working with a healthcare professional and making informed lifestyle choices, you can reduce symptoms and improve your overall health and well-being.