The food we consume can trigger a range of reactions in our bodies, both positive and negative. If you have a food intolerance or food allergy and continue to eat the offending food, your body may respond with an inflammatory reaction. This can lead to various lifestyle-affecting conditions such as headaches, chronic pain, digestive disorders, and other issues.
Why You Should Get Tested
Food intolerance can stem from multiple factors, including irritable bowel syndrome, food poisoning, psychological factors, and sensitivities to certain natural or organic food additives. While less than 2% of the population suffers from food allergies, up to 45% may experience some form of food intolerance. At MedLabs Laboratories, we offer comprehensive food intolerance tests and food allergy testing. Using advanced microarray technology, we analyze your blood sample against 221 different types of food to identify potential triggers.
Food Allergy Symptoms vs. Food Intolerance Symptoms
- Typically triggers suddenly.
- Even a small amount of food can cause a reaction.
- It happens every time the food is consumed.
- It can be life-threatening.
- Often identified in childhood.
Food Intolerance Symptoms
- Occurs when a food irritates your stomach or is not properly digested.
- Symptoms may include gas, cramps, bloating, heartburn, headaches, anxiety, migraines, joint pain, skin issues, fatigue, depression, weight loss difficulties, and irritability.
- Symptoms can appear days after consuming the problematic food.
- Usually develops gradually.
- Often triggered by eating a large quantity of the food or eating it frequently.
- Is not life-threatening.
Signs of Allergies and Food Intolerance
Recognizing the signs of allergies and food intolerance is crucial for proper management. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, it may be time to consider food allergy testing or a food intolerance test. Early identification and food allergy treatment can help prevent more serious health issues and improve your overall quality of life.
How to Use Your Test Results
If your test reveals multiple elevated results, eliminating all the problematic foods at once may feel overwhelming. Consider these steps:
- Completely avoid the top 4 or 5 foods that show the highest antibody concentrations.
- Reduce and/or rotate the remaining foods that show lower antibody concentrations.
Some people may feel worse for a few days after eliminating certain foods. While it can be challenging to give up familiar foods, perseverance is key. Substitute the reactive foods with others that do not trigger a reaction. Exploring new foods can also help reduce cravings and add enjoyment to your diet. Most people experience symptom relief within one to three months after eliminating foods that cause a reaction. The Food Intolerance Test has significantly improved the quality of life for many individuals worldwide.
