What is a food intolerance?

​It is thought that over 45% of the population react adversely to certain foods that they eat.

Whilst the effects may not be life threatening, resulting symptoms can have a massive impact on someone’s quality of life.

When foods and drinks are digested, the proteins within them are broken down into smaller fragments for easy absorption into the body.

Certain foods will be broken down into molecules that the body doesn`t  like.  It can react by attacking them using antibodies called Immunoglobulin G’s (IgG).
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A food-specific IgG reaction should not be confused with food allergies, which are very different.

Symptoms

Food intolerances can cause a wide range of disruptive symptoms such as:
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• Abdominal Pain
• Aches and Pains
• Acne
• Bloating
• Constipation
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Diarrhoea
• Eczema
• Fatigue
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Itching
• Headaches
• Wheezing​

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• Low mood
• Nausea
• Rashe​s​
• Rhinitis
• ​Hyperactivity
• Sinusitis
• Skin problems
• Stomach Cramps
• Tension
• Tiredness
• Urticaria
• Weight loss/Weight Gain

Symptoms of food intolerance can take up to 72 hours to appear after eating trigger foods.  What you think you are reacting to from your last meal, may well be 24 - 72 hours too late! 

On average people who suffer from food intolerances usually have around 4 or 5 trigger foods.
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Many people suffer for years, having formed a coping mechanism to deal with the symptoms or accept discomfort as their `normal`.

   How does the test work?

Immunoglobulin (IgG) is a type of antibody. Antibodies are major components of the immune system.

Measurement of food-specific IgG (1-4) antibodies is used as a strategy for identifying foods to which you may be sensitive to. 

The laboratory tests that I use in my clinic are IgG Food Intolerance tests that accurately detect over 100 food and drink specific IgG reactions. 

The test is a 'pin-prick' test and a small sample of blood is then sent to the laboratory for analysis. 

Once IgG reactive foods are identified and eliminated, most people report great improvements in their symptoms and discomfort.  This is supported by a wealth of independent published studies.

It is always recommended that any concerns are discussed with a doctor first, before taking a food intolerance test.

​This is to fully investigate the potential causes which may include investigations for coeliac disease, allergies and/or lactose intolerance. 

​Your doctor can then provide the medical follow up required if you test positive for these more serious conditions.

If you`d like an intolerance test, then please get in touch. 
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​Every intolerance test comes with a consultation to check you over and discuss your symptoms and a follow up discussion to go over your results.