Your body can react to certain foods in various ways, including food sensitivity, food intolerance, and food allergy. It’s important to understand the differences between these reactions to determine the appropriate course of action, including Food Allergy Testing.
Food sensitivity is a type of immune response different from a food allergy. While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, research suggests that IgG testing, combined with an elimination diet, can help identify trigger foods. IgG antibodies react to specific foods, and while these reactions are normal in some individuals, they can cause inflammation and symptoms in others. Common symptoms of food sensitivity include headaches, bloating, stomach pain, and indigestion.
Unlike food allergies, food sensitivity symptoms may not appear immediately after eating the problematic food. Symptoms can manifest hours or even days later, making it challenging to link specific foods to your symptoms. Food allergy testing may not be helpful in diagnosing food sensitivities. An elimination diet, possibly guided by a food sensitivity test, can be more informative.
Food allergies involve a different immune response. When you consume a food you’re allergic to, your immune system activates IgE antibodies, which trigger the release of histamine. Histamine causes a range of allergic reactions, from mild to severe. Common food allergens include tree nuts, peanuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. Food allergy testing can help identify these specific IgE antibody responses.
Symptoms of a food allergy typically appear quickly, often within minutes of eating the trigger food. In severe cases, a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure and swelling of the airways, restricting breathing. Prompt medical attention is crucial in cases of anaphylaxis, often involving the administration of epinephrine.
Food intolerance differs from both food sensitivity and food allergy. It occurs when your body lacks the necessary enzymes to break down a particular food. A common example is lactose intolerance, where the body doesn’t produce enough lactase to digest lactose, a sugar found in dairy products. Symptoms of food intolerance often include nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. Food allergy testing is not relevant for diagnosing food intolerances.
Unlike food allergies, food intolerances don’t involve the immune system. The reactions occur within the digestive system before digestion is complete. While food intolerances are generally not life-threatening, they can cause significant discomfort. Managing food intolerances typically involves avoiding trigger foods or using enzyme supplements to aid digestion. Understanding the distinctions between these three types of food reactions is essential for effective management. If you suspect you have a food allergy, intolerance, or sensitivity, consult with a healthcare professional. They can help determine the appropriate diagnostic tests, such as food allergy testing, and recommend the best course of action for managing your condition.
