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Hi, I'm Jaci Salley, a Holistic Nutritionist and Personal Trainer dedicated to helping you achieve balance through whole, natural foods and exercise. My journey in holistic nutrition and wellness coaching has fueled my passion for empowering others to take charge of their health. I believe in a …
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My name is Megan and I have been in the industry of nutrition, herbal medicine and education for the last ten years. I have my Masters of Medical Science in Human Nutrition and I have worked with a variety of clients. I incorporate herbal medicine in my practice and have a small apothecary in my ho…
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FAQs:
What is Food Sensitivity?
Food sensitivity is a diffuse and poorly understood reaction to food that may be associated with increased levels of certain IgG class antibodies that are reactive to that food. Unlike a true food allergy, the symptoms can be delayed for a few days after ingesting the trigger food. People who have food sensitivities can go a lifetime without ever knowing they have one due to delayed reaction times and vague symptoms that mirror common ailments. Some signs that may point to food sensitivity include bloating, migraines, and diarrhea.
What is Delayed Food Sensitivity?
Delayed hypersensitivity reactions are cell-mediated reactions with symptoms developing 48 - 72 hours after ingestion of the offending food. The role of cell-mediated reactions in food allergies is far less well established; IgE-mediated food allergies by contrast are quite well understood.
How Long Does it Take for Food Sensitivity Symptoms to Appear?
Food sensitivity is a diffuse and poorly understood reaction to food that may be associated with increased levels of certain IgG class antibodies that are reactive to that food. Unlike a true food allergy, the symptoms can be delayed for a few days after ingesting the trigger food. People who have food sensitivities can go a lifetime without ever knowing they have one due to delayed reaction times and vague symptoms that mirror common ailments. Some signs that may point to food sensitivity include bloating, migraines, and diarrhea.
What is the Difference Between Food Sensitivity and Food Allergy?
The difference between food sensitivity and food allergy is not always clear, as some symptoms may be shared. There are two key characteristics to keep in mind when diagnosing a food sensitivity:
1. Sensitivities often trigger a reaction in the digestive system or gastrointestinal tract, leading to various forms of stomach upset and discomfort.
2. With food sensitivity, small amounts can usually be consumed without causing symptoms.
While certainly uncomfortable and disruptive in its own right, food sensitivity/intolerance is not life-threatening. A food sensitivity will not cause anaphylaxis, no matter how much of the offending food is consumed. Conversely, a food allergy triggers an immune system reaction, releasing antibodies (IgE) and causing the body to react as if to a threat — even small amounts may trigger serious or life-threatening reactions.
The crucial difference between a food sensitivity and a food allergy is that food allergies can be life-threatening and those with a food allergy must carry two epinephrine autoinjectors at all times. A recommended best practice for those with diagnosed food allergies is to create an anaphylaxis treatment plan for family members and friends to enable quick action in case of accidental contact or ingestion. Talking to a board-certified allergist can help you determine if what you are experiencing is a food sensitivity, or something more serious.
Which is the Best Food Sensitivity Test?
Blood tests are considered more accurate for detecting food sensitivities than hair tests. This is because blood tests measure the antibodies the immune system produces in response to certain foods. These antibodies, such as IgG, indicate an immune response and help identify food sensitivities. For this reason, tests that require a blood sample are more accurate.
Do Home Food Sensitivity Tests Work?
Simply put: no. The availability and convenience of these tests may seem appealing, but you will not get reliable, accurate results. And for those with an undiagnosed food allergy, inaccurate results could be life-threatening.
Non-standardized and at-home tests — which are often sold to diagnose food sensitivities — typically look for IgG antibodies. These IgG antibodies are produced by your immune system and are based on memory: once you’ve consumed a certain food in the past, your body recognizes it and stores that memory in IgG antibodies — meaning if you have eaten a food before, it may unnecessarily show up as a positive result with IgG testing. Unfortunately, this is far from a dependable or accurate process when determining whether you have a food allergy. There is a reason that many of these tests are considered non-standardized and aren’t usually covered by insurance. Studies show that IgE antibodies are directly correlated to immune system responses from food allergies — not IgG.
A non-standardized test may be able to tell you if your body recognizes whether you’ve consumed a certain food in the past, but it won’t be able to tell you with certainty whether you have a true food allergy. Relying on non-standardized test results can lead to unnecessary avoidance of foods or misdiagnosing broader health issues, resulting in inadequate nutrition and overall decreased quality of life.
If you suspect that your food intolerance or sensitivity may be due to an allergy, the best next step is to make an appointment with a trained clinician who specializes in food allergy testing and diagnosis.
Are Food Sensitivity Testing Reliable?
Food sensitivity testing can be a reliable way to detect food sensitivities, however, there are many ways in which they can be misused or misinterpreted. This is why getting food sensitivity testing through a medical professional is your best option, as they can ensure test quality and help interpret results.
Results from food sensitivity tests can be confusing. Sometimes the format is broken down into categories of foods and offers lists of what foods may cause a sensitivity. For example, various cheeses may appear in the dairy category. However, this does not give a person the information necessary to accurately navigate their food sensitivity. Food sensitivities can vary in severity, and the amount of allergen in foods can vary greatly. While lists of foods containing food-component allergens may be helpful to someone newly diagnosed with food sensitivity, it’s important to understand the allergen itself and learn how to determine whether or not a food should be avoided.
This problem is especially prevalent for food sensitivity testing kits, which became popular as a result of the pandemic. While these tests may help identify food sensitivity, you should follow up with a healthcare expert to get further professional testing and guidance. Tests can vary in quality and may be affected by environmental factors during shipping and storage. Home testing kits also may present an opportunity for user error, further affecting the accuracy of the test.
Does Food Sensitivity Testing Work?
It’s debatable. Food sensitivity tests measure the level of IgG antibodies in your blood after exposure to various food allergens. The higher the level of antibodies, the test companies say, the greater the chance of a food sensitivity.
However, these tests are not widely accepted in the medical world. Many experts warn that the IgG measure is not an accurate or reliable marker of food sensitivity. There are also concerns about the high rate of false positives with the tests.
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, for example, actually advises against using them. So far, no food sensitivity test has earned approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Can Food Sensitivity Cause Constipation?
When we eat food that we are sensitive to, it can cause a reaction that might include constipation, bloating, cramps, and nausea. All of the above are uncomfortable, especially continuingly, but constipation is a very common problem for people.
Food intolerance is one of the most common causes of constipation. When we lack the specific enzymes we need to digest food, like lactase for dairy, our food does not get properly broken down and digested. It starts to ferment in our gut causing all sorts of science-project-like bacteria to accumulate. The accumulation of bad bacteria can cause imbalances in our gut and can lead to issues like constipation.
Do Food Sensitivities Worsen with Diverticulitis?
Chronic food sensitivities or allergies can aggravate the inflammatory reactions in diverticulitis and may contribute to it. If you think your flare-ups may be linked to a food allergy or intolerance, a Food Allergy or Intolerance Test can identify these.
Can Low Magnesium Cause Food Sensitivity?
Individuals who suffer from allergies or food sensitivities are at high risk of magnesium deficiency – up to 42 % of those affected have low magnesium levels. The body often reacts with inflammatory reactions to unsuitable foods which leads to an increased need for magnesium. At the same time, however, the intake can be severely impacted by dietary restrictions. In the worst case, the body loses even more minerals as a consequence of loose stools or diarrhea.
Magnesium supplementation improves the health condition in many cases. So far, it's not yet entirely clear what is responsible for this effect. One possible explanation is that magnesium is needed for the transformation of linoleic acid and α-linolenic acid into the essential long-chain omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA. These fats down-regulate the formation of pro-inflammatory mediators. A deficiency of magnesium could therefore trigger or enhance inflammatory processes. Besides, magnesium also has a stabilizing effect on mast cells: It decreases the release of histamine, which modulates immune responses and acts as a pro-inflammatory factor.
Does Insurance Cover Food Sensitivity Testing?
Most food sensitivity tests are not covered by most insurance companies, but some tests may be eligible under an FSA or HSA plan. Your insurance provider should be able to provide more information about whether they cover these tests and which ones they may cover.
What are Food Sensitivity Tests?
Food sensitivity tests, also known as food intolerance tests, refer to laboratory tests that can measure the body’s immune response to certain foods. Food sensitivity occurs when immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin G (IgG), white blood cells, and other immune system molecules react to certain food(s) in one’s diet.
Food sensitivity tests are used to help reduce the intake of certain foods in the diet that may be contributing to the individual’s gastrointestinal symptoms. Food sensitivity tests are not diagnostic tests but are primarily used to help guide what types of food an individual may prioritize within an elimination diet.
The food sensitivity test can be used, alongside other testing methods and treatments recommended by a clinician or dietitian, to help make adjustments to one’s diet and minimize gastrointestinal symptoms.
How Do Food Sensitivities Affect the Body?
Food sensitivities are believed to be caused by an immune reaction primarily driven by the IgG, IgA, IgM, and other cell-mediated reactions. IgG-specific antibody-mediated reactions are a body's natural and normal defensive reactions to infiltrating food antigens, which are absorbed into the bloodstream in small quantities. After a meal, food antigens form a complex with antibodies and specific IgGs circulating in the serum. In healthy individuals, these complexes are easily removed in the reticuloendothelial system (i.e., a system where tissue macrophages remove foreign material from the lymph and blood). In the presence of excess food antigens or antibodies, immune complexes are deposited in the blood vessels of the skin, kidneys, and joints. IgGs involved in this reaction may initiate adverse food reactions and contribute to chronic intestinal inflammation.
Symptoms of Food Sensitivity
Symptoms of food sensitivity can vary greatly from one patient to the next, depending on the type of sensitivity and the severity. The most common symptoms include:
- Gastrointestinal discomfort
- Bloating
- Stomach pain
- Excess gas
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Acid reflux/heartburn
- Headaches
- Skin flushing
- Irritability or anxiety
- Fatigue
Symptoms tend to increase as the amount of food consumed increases. They may appear suddenly or over a matter of hours, in some cases lasting for days afterward.
Causes of Food Sensitivities
Food intolerances arise if the body is unable to digest a certain food. This impairment may be due to a lack of digestive enzymes or a sensitivity to certain chemicals. Foods commonly associated with food intolerance include:
1. Lactose intolerance
The body uses digestive enzymes to break down foods. If a person lacks certain enzymes, they may be less able to digest certain foods. Lactose is a sugar that occurs in milk. People with lactose intolerance do not have enough lactase, an enzyme that breaks lactose into smaller molecules that the body can easily absorb through the intestine.
2. Fructose intolerance
Fructose is a sugar present in fruit, some vegetables, and honey. Although rare, fructose intolerance can also be due to the lack of an enzyme known as hereditary fructose intolerance. Fructose malabsorption, in which the body is missing a protein that allows it to absorb the sugar from the intestine, is much more common.
3. Gluten intolerance
Gluten is a protein that occurs in some cereals, including wheat, barley, and rye. A person with gluten intolerance experiences discomfort, such as pain, bloating, or nausea, after eating foods that contain gluten.
4. Salicylate intolerance
Salicylates are compounds that occur in many plant foods, including fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices. They are also common in products containing artificial flavorings and preservatives, such as toothpaste, chewing gum, and candies. Most people can tolerate moderate amounts of salicylates in their diet, but some have a reduced tolerance.
5. Food poisoning
Some foods have naturally occurring chemicals that have a toxic effect on humans, causing diarrhea, nausea, rashes, and vomiting.
6. Food additives and intolerance
Many people are concerned that they may have an intolerance to food additives. However, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, most studies show that few additives cause problems and affect relatively few people. Food producers often use additives to enhance flavors, make foods look more appealing, and increase their shelf life. Examples of food additives include antioxidants, artificial colorings, artificial flavorings, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, preservatives, and sweeteners.
Types of Food Sensitivity Tests
Food sensitivity tests are designed to identify food sensitivities you may have. There are several types of food sensitivity tests.
1. Elimination diet and challenge test
An elimination diet followed by an oral food challenge is considered the gold standard for identifying food sensitivities. To adhere to an elimination diet, your healthcare expert will direct you to stop eating foods to which you may have a sensitivity. Sometimes elimination diets can cause temporary withdrawal symptoms. You should remain on the elimination diet until these reactions clear, which typically takes about two weeks. Once symptoms are clear, you can begin testing foods in an oral challenge. When choosing foods to eliminate, you should choose foods to which you suspect you have a sensitivity. If you are uncertain about what could be triggering food sensitivity, you can start with the most common allergen foods, such as dairy, soy, or wheat.
2. Cell-based blood tests
Drawn blood is exposed to a variety of food components and foods in a lab and then monitored to observe how the blood reacts to the various components.
a) Antigen Leukocyte Cellular Antibody Test (ALCAT): This is an older test that measures changes in the size of your white blood cells in reaction to food antigens. This test is less accurate than tests developed more recently which measure changes in solid-to-liquid ratio within white blood cells. In one study, people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) experienced a significant reduction in symptoms like bloating and abdominal pain after following an ALCAT-based diet for two weeks.
b) Mediator Release Test (MRT): These tests assess changes in the solid-to-liquid ratio of blood in response to a food allergen. White blood cells are the solid that is measured. When exposed to an allergen, white blood cells shrink, which suggests the release of chemicals like histamine and leukotrienes. MRT results are used to create a diet known as LEAP, which stands for Lifestyle Eating And Performance. One 2004 study showed that patients suffering from IBS who followed a LEAP diet saw a notable improvement in symptoms.
Other tests
3. Antibody-based blood tests
Antibody blood tests identify food sensitivities by measuring how many immunoglobulin G (lgG) antibodies your body produces in response to certain foods.
4. Electrodermal screening
The electrodermal screening food sensitivity test measures the electrical activity of the skin in response to food antigens. Electrical activity is monitored at acupuncture points. A computer with digitized frequencies of individual foods is connected to a brass tube, which is held by the patient in one hand. The patient’s other hand is pressed at a specific point with a probe that is also connected to the computer. The skin’s electrical resistance to digitized food frequencies is generated into a numerical reading which indicates how strong reactions are to each frequency.
5. Muscle response test
Muscle response tests are also called applied kinesiology. During the test, patients hold a vial with a food antigen in one hand. The other arm is extended and held parallel to the floor while a practitioner presses on it. Food sensitivities are detected when the arm is easily pushed down. It is unknown if practitioner skill level has a significant impact on test accuracy, but the small number of published studies of this test do not support it as a reliable testing method.
6. Provocation and neutralization test
The provocation and neutralization test involves injecting food extracts of suspected food allergens under the skin. Tests are usually administered on the upper arm and then subjected to a 10-minute wait period. An area of raised swelling, known as a wheal, indicates a sensitivity to that food.
10 Most Common Food Sensitivities
Food sensitivities in the US are on the rise, affecting approximately 45% of the American public. When talking about food sensitivity it's important to remember that this is not the same as a food allergy. People often use the two terms interchangeably, but they are distinct biological processes that vary in severity and onset. Below we explore 10 of the most common food sensitivities and their symptoms and offer advice on which foods to avoid to better mitigate your symptoms.
1. Eggs
The onset of egg sensitivity symptoms is slower and more gradual than an egg allergy – which is a more severe and rapidly developing IgE reaction.
2. Dairy
Sensitivity to dairy - that's milk and its derivatives such as cheese, yogurt, creams, and butter – is one of the most common food sensitivities both within the US and globally. If you suspect you have a dairy sensitivity, it could be caused by lactose intolerance or your body might be reacting to the protein (casein) found in milk and other dairy products.
3. Gluten
For those who experience gluten sensitivity, their symptoms can vary in severity and type. A reaction to gluten sensitivity can also have a delayed onset with symptoms occurring any time up to 72 hours after consuming foods that contain gluten.
4. Oats
While oats are packed with nutritional goodness and can make for a filling breakfast, for those with an oat sensitivity, there might be more pain than pleasure in the long run thanks to an IgG immune response to the protein in oats which causes inflammation in the body.
5. Alcohol
An alcohol sensitivity can be caused by issues with the body's ability to break down alcohol efficiently similar to lactose intolerance it is caused by an enzyme deficiency and so it is not always down to an IgG reaction. However, sensitivity to alcohol can also indicate that your body is having an IgG response to one or more of the popular ingredients added to alcoholic drinks during the manufacturing or fermentation process.
6. Tomato
If you suffer with a tomato sensitivity, this might be due to several reasons:
a. An IgG immune response to the protein in tomatoes which causes inflammation in the body. The resulting symptoms are unpleasant and can affect a person's quality of life but are non-life threatening.
b. A sensitivity to alkaloids, a hard-to-digest chemical compound found in tomatoes and other fruits and vegetables that are part of the nightshade family of plants. This also includes white potatoes, eggplant, bell peppers, paprika, and goji berries.
c. If you regularly experience heartburn or suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the acidic content of tomatoes whether in fresh tomatoes or canned can also aggravate symptoms and are best avoided.
7. Corn
Whether it's sweet corn, flint corn (aka popcorn), or field corn, the latter used in most processed foods, takeouts, and drinks, this grain is a common staple in most American diets. But consuming corn can become a headache - a metaphorical and a literal one – for people with a corn sensitivity.
8. Coffee
For most people, a steaming cup of morning coffee is one of life's simple pleasures. But when you have a coffee sensitivity, your body reacts to the caffeine molecules and/or proteins found in coffee and any other caffeinated beverages and foods, making you think twice whether the energy boost from a fresh cup of coffee is after all worth the trouble it might be causing you.
9. Shellfish
If you're looking to boost your intake of Omega 3 and fatty acids, shellfish and seafood are great ways to get those vital nutrients. But if you have a shellfish sensitivity, there may be more pain than gain.
10. Nuts
If you routinely experience discomfort and digestive issues within a 72-hour window after consuming nuts, then you may have a sensitivity. Nut allergy symptoms are more severe and can lead to swelling, difficulty breathing, and even anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.
How to Identify Food Sensitivities
If you experience symptoms, including hives, itching, and swelling after eating certain foods, it’s important to rule out food allergies, which can be quite serious. In some cases, food allergies may lead to anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Doctors commonly use certain tests to diagnose food allergies:
1. Skin test: This type of test involves pricking your skin with a probe that contains a small amount of food allergen and monitoring your reaction.
2. Blood test: This test helps determine whether you are allergic to specific foods by measuring the amounts of certain antibodies in your blood.
3. Oral food challenge: This procedure involves consuming small amounts of a suspected allergen under the supervision of a doctor. They will keep emergency equipment and medication on hand in case of a severe reaction.
Tips on How To Manage Food Sensitivities
Managing food sensitivity involves identifying trigger foods and making dietary changes to minimize symptoms. While general strategies can be helpful, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a gastroenterologist, for personalized guidance and treatment options. Here are some common approaches that may be recommended:
1. Elimination Diet
An elimination diet involves removing suspected trigger foods from your diet for a certain period, typically a few weeks. Gradually reintroducing foods one at a time allows you to observe any adverse reactions and identify specific triggers. It is not uncommon for gastroenterology doctors to work with dietitians throughout the process of helping a patient manage food sensitivity.
2. Keeping a Food Diary
Keeping a detailed food diary can help track your symptoms and identify patterns between your diet and symptoms. Note the foods you consume and any symptoms experienced afterward. Common food sensitivities include gluten and monosodium glutamate (MSG). This information can assist your gastroenterologist in pinpointing potential trigger foods.
3. Avoidance of Trigger Foods
Once your trigger foods are identified, it is recommended to avoid or limit their consumption. Read food labels carefully to check for hidden ingredients or potential cross-contamination. Be cautious when dining out and communicate your food sensitivities to ensure safe food preparation.
4. Substituting Foods
Finding suitable alternatives to trigger foods can help maintain a balanced diet. There are now many alternatives for individuals with various food sensitivities. Your GI practitioner will help you experiment and make the right choices.
5. Nutritional Support
A registered dietitian can provide personalized nutritional advice to ensure you’re meeting your dietary needs while managing your food sensitivity. They can help create a well-rounded meal plan that includes alternative sources of nutrients found in trigger foods.
6. Probiotics and Gut Health
Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, may be beneficial for some individuals with food sensitivities. Discuss with your gastroenterology doctor if incorporating probiotics into your diet could be beneficial for managing your symptoms.
Natural Remedies for Food Sensitivities
Natural remedies for food sensitivities will be different for everyone. This is because the root of sensitivities is different for everyone. Your best bet for finding natural remedies is to go to a dietitian, naturopathic doctor, or nutritionist. They’ll be able to work with you to find the best natural remedy for you. Some supplements that might be considered are fish oil, probiotics, L-glutamine, and quercetin.
1. Diet Changes
One of the most common natural remedies is diet changes. There are two components to this. The first component involves eliminating the foods that make you sick. The second involves adding in foods that can help heal your stomach, so you feel better. There are a variety of foods that can help you feel better. We’ll list a few.
a. Bananas
One of the best foods for food sensitivities is bananas. Bananas can help you with several different sensitivities.
b. Probiotics
Probiotics are an important part of eating healthy. They can help your body start getting rid of the bad bacteria that are making you sick. They can also help you treat your sensitivities. The processed food you get from the grocery store is often going to be full of chemicals. These chemicals can make you sick over the long term. Probiotic-rich foods can help replace those artificial food chemicals with healthy flora.
c. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a great way to treat food sensitivities. It will help you get rid of the bad bacteria in your body. It also lowers your body’s acidity level while increasing stomach acid to help you digest. When your acidity level is low, and your digestion improves, you’ll start to feel better.
d. Sea Vegetables
Sea vegetables like kelp and wakame are other great options for overcoming food sensitivities. They’ve been used in Asia as natural remedies for centuries. They’re great at getting rid of toxins in your body.
2. Supplements
Another natural remedy is supplements. These are going to help you start improving your digestion. In addition, they’re going to help your body start developing the enzymes it needs to properly digest food.
3. Herbs
Herbs are another option. Many herbs can help your stomach and intestines. Some of them include ginger, turmeric, and peppermint. You can find these and others in many natural remedies and teas.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
If you suffer from gluten sensitivity, you’ve probably already noticed that it leads to inflammation. You need to start managing this inflammation. One way is by eating foods that have anti-inflammatory properties. They’ll help your body start healing from the inflammation that’s leading to your food sensitivities.
5. Acupuncture
Another option is getting acupuncture. Acupuncture can help your body start feeling better as it heals. It can also help your body relax. These are both going to help you start overcoming your food sensitivities.
6. Exercise
Exercise is another great way to help you overcome your food sensitivities. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins. These will help you feel better. Exercise has also been shown to help your immune system become stronger.
How to Find a Food Allergist Near Me
Choosing the right allergy doctor can make a big difference in keeping your allergies at bay. Let’s talk about a few things to consider in your search for the right allergy doctor, and where you can go to get to the bottom of your food allergies.
1. Look for Board Certification
When considering an allergy doctor’s medical credentials, make sure that they are board-certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology (ABAI). Many ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctors test for airborne allergies such as hay fever, but you need a board-certified allergist or immunologist to test for food allergies. Board certification is the highest level of accreditation awarded to a medical specialist.
2. Look for an Allergist Who Offers a Range of Services
There is no single method to test for a food allergy, so it usually takes a comprehensive evaluation – such as a skin prick, a blood test, and an oral food test. An allergist who provides a variety of tests would be able to accurately diagnose a food allergy.
3. Ask for Recommendations and Referrals
A word-of-mouth recommendation from a family member or friend is invaluable when looking for a good allergy doctor. Also, you can ask your primary care doctor for a referral to an allergist they trust.
4. Remember to check your insurance coverage list for allergists who take your insurance. If a doctor you’re interested in isn’t on the list, feel free to call the doctor’s practice to see whether they do indeed accept your coverage – or, if not, how that would be handled.
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