Food Allergy and Intolerance Testing
Food allergy and intolerance testing can be really beneficial for those who are experiencing unusual reactions to food without realising it.
It helps to pinpoint what foods are causing abnormal immune reactions leading to symptoms such as digestive upset, eczema, hives, asthma, and post nasal drip.
The Difference Between Food Allergy and Food Intolerance
When it comes to food reactions, there are several types of immunoglobulins that are made in the body that can lead to either an immediate or delayed reaction.
Immunoglobulins are a class of proteins which function as antibodies produced by the immune system in response to foreign antibodies such as food antigens.
An IgE reaction occurs about the time immediately after exposure to the allergen; food or inhalant. This type of reaction is referred to as a Type I immediate hypersensitivity reaction or in some cases anaphylaxis. Common IgE allergens are peanuts and egg.
An IgG reaction can occur hours to days after exposure to the allergen; food or inhalant. This type of reaction is referred to as a delayed sensitivity reaction.
The IgG & IgE general food panels are used in my practice to assess both immediate and delayed reactions of 96 – 200 general western foods. This type of testing is useful as it eliminates the broad process of ‘trial and error of eliminating offending foods’ and provides a detailed report for identifying offending foods, giving you a clearer picture on what you should and shouldn’t be avoiding.
Who Is This Test Recommended For?
This test is ideal for those who suffer with:
- Asthma
- Headaches/Migraines
- Eczema
- Fatigue
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
- Leaky gut
- Abdominal bloating
- Fluid retention
- Depression
- Mood disorders
- Skin conditions
- Behavioural problems (ADD/ADHD)
- Hives
- Swelling
- Wheezing
- Abdominal cramping
- Diarrhoea
What Can Be Tested?
There are several food allergy/sensitivity panels available depending on the breadth of the diet eaten ranging from 96 different foods to 200.
These include the most common allergens/sensitivities such as wheat, all types of dairy, eggs, soy, sugar, grains, nuts and a wide array of vegetables, fruits, spices.
Depending on your symptoms a combined IgE and IgG panel may be recommended or just an IgG test if there are no signs of a true allergy/anaphylaxis.
How Does It Work?
This test is collected through a finger pin prick test, collecting small amounts of blood on a blood spot card.
I can take this collection during your initial consultation, or alternatively this test can also be collected at home by yourself or a loved one.
For children or those who have poor circulation and are unable to obtain a good blood sample via a finger pin prick, a collection vial can be provided for a blood draw via Clinipath Laboratories.
After collection the test is sent express post to a specialised Laboratory based in Victoria, Australia.
The results take approximately 10-12 business days to be received.
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