Food sensitivities occur when the immune system begins to abnormally attack the body due the foods consumed. Immunoglobulins are protective proteins that are released by the immune system and act as natural antibodies. There are two types of immunoglobulins released when exposed to foods that trigger the immune system: IgE and IgG. IgE gets released and creates an anaphylactic reaction, occurring when an individual is allergic to foods, like a peanut allergy. IgG, however, is a delayed response to an allergen and occurs with food sensitivities. Both IgE and IgG can be tested.

When to test food sensitivities:

There are many symptoms that can warrant an investigation into the presence of food sensitivities.

• Skin: Acne, eczema, redness, psoriasis
• Hair: unspecific, diffuse hair loss
• Digestive: nausea, bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain

How do food sensitivities happen?

Leaky gut syndrome, intestinal permeability, is a common cause of food sensitivities. Leaky gut happens when the tight links of the inner intestinal tract loosen leading to food particles, viruses, bacteria and toxins entering the bloodstream. These things aren’t supposed to be in the bloodstream, and as a result, it’s presence can lead to inflammation and negative changes in the gut flora. In fact, increased intestinal permeability, or leaky gut syndrome, has been linked to chronic diseases like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, and irritable bowel syndrome.

The digestive tract has a great responsibility of breaking down the foods we eat, absorbing all the nutrients, proteins and minerals and discarding all the wasteful and harmful byproducts. The gut houses millions of bacteria that help the digestive tract do its job all while supporting the immune system.
An IgG food sensitivity test shows which foods are inflammatory, further perpetuating leaky gut syndrome, worsening symptoms and preventing healing. An IgG test is simple, with a requisition provided by Dr. Swalah and a small sample collected by any LifeLabs location. After the sample is collected, it takes about 2 weeks for the results to arrive.

Here is a sample of an IgG Food Sensitivity Test. The lab tests your blood sample against common foods and determines how sensitive your body is to it.  Highly reactive foods are presented with a red bar, moderately reactive as orange and safe as green.

Food Sensitivity testing may or may not be required. Consult a naturopath to learn if this is needed for you.

Disclaimer: Dr. Swalah ND requires a thorough, one-hour health assessment before further diagnostic tests are deemed necessary.