Food allergies and food sensitivity are abnormal responses to a food component that are triggered by the immune system, which in turn releases immunoglobulins (IgE, IgG, IgA) into the body, either immediately or over a period of time.

ELISA SYSTEMS is recognized as a global leader in the creation of Food Allergen detection kits, the standard we utilize to determine the degree of food sensitivity in our patients.

Specific IgE food panels include the most common food allergens that cause immediate-type reactions, these are categorized into basic or comprehensive panels for adults or children. Individual food allergy panels for specific foods can be ordered from the lab’s inventory of over 100 different foods as needed.

Specific IgG and/or IgA ELISA food panels are arranged in comprehensive panels of 96 foods consumed in the typical western diet or 184 foods which include the 96 foods of the first panel and many of the substitute foods typically found in rotation/elimination diets.

Food Sensitivity vs Food Allergy

A food allergy test is a medical procedure that evaluates the symptoms of food intolerance or allergy in those who have them. A healthcare professional will perform this test on someone in order to figure out what foods are causing the reactions. Reactions to food are categorized as:

• Allergic: The immune system’s response to a specific food.

• Tolerance or sensitivity: The digestive system’s (stomach, intestines, etc.) responses to certain foods. Tolerance or sensitivity can lead to similar symptoms to an allergic reaction. Examples of this include lactose intolerance (the inability to digest the type of sugar in milk) and gluten sensitivity (the sensitivity to the protein in wheat and other grains).

Different methods of food sensitivity testing are employed to help identify the specific foods that are causing problems for a patient.

What symptoms are associated with food sensitivity?

Food insensitivity or intolerance is when your body cannot digest or break down food properly. Despite the common belief that food sensitivity is usually not fatal, it can lead to significant distress. Symptoms of food sensitivity include:

• Abdominal (stomach) pain

• Bloating (feeling like your stomach is full of gas)

• Gas

• Diarrhea

Symptoms may manifest shortly after eating, the food’s progression through your digestive system is the cause. It’s common for many symptoms to occur within a few hours of eating. However, it may take several hours or even days before any symptoms are exhibited, which makes it difficult to determine which food was to blame for the reaction.

Who should get a food sensitivity test?

If your digestive symptoms are associated with food, but you don’t know which foods are to blame, a food sensitivity test may be able to identify the culprit. While food sensitivity may be recognized in childhood, an individual’s body can also become intolerant to certain foods as they age. This is why it’s crucial to undergo testing if you exhibit symptoms at any age.

If you want to improve your physical health and well-being, Track Your Max has the tools necessary to assist you. Our team can help you educate yourself about the needs of your body and how to craft the perfect routine to reach the goals you have for yourself. With our tools and resources, you can ensure you create the best possible workout and diet plan. Take control of your health by having access to personalized information and call 832-400-9501.