The incidence of food intolerances and allergies is on the rise. This is due to changes in our food production and supply, our altered gut function and environmental factors such as poor diet, medications, lifestyle, stress and external toxins.
A food intolerance or allergy is basically an adverse reaction to the ingestion of certain foods. Our body’s immune system identifies any foods deemed to be dangerous to us and produces immunoglobulins (antibodies) against them. A food intolerance or allergy is identified by testing for these specific antibodies present in the body.
These food reactions are mediated by the immune system, so they can affect any tissue or organ. This is why symptoms can be so varied and although food intolerances are the most common cause of an adverse reaction to food, they are also the most commonly overlooked or under diagnosed.
So how do you know if you have a food intolerance? Let’s find out more…
What is a food intolerance?
This is a delayed IgG antibody reaction, with symptoms occurring from several hours to days after exposure to the food. This delayed reaction is why they can be hard to identify, and why testing is a valuable tool.
How an intolerance is different to a food allergy?
Food allergies are more immediate. An allergy is an IgE antibody reaction which occurs at the same time or shortly (a few minutes to an hour max) after exposure to the allergen (food or inhalant). Symptoms can be as severe as vomiting, swelling and itching of the throat, eyelids, face, tongue or mouth; hives; nasal congestion, wheezing or asthma; dermatitis; bloating, stomach pain or abrupt diarrhoea; and anaphylaxis.
Common food intolerance symptoms:
* Acne
* Skin rashes
* Bloating and/or altered gut function
* Fibromyalgia or aches/pains
*Headaches/Migraines
* Sinus problems
* Low energy
* Poor concentration (“foggy mind”)
* Weight gain
* Candida/Thrush
* Reoccurring infections, i.e. respiratory and sinus are common
Chronic health effects
If a food intolerance is not identified and continues to cause inflammation throughout the body, then you are at risk at developing more chronic health problems like arthritis, gastrointestinal disorders, autoimmune conditions, asthma, and chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
How do you test for food intolerances?
Food intolerances are tested through a simple finger-prick blood test which can be performed at home or with your practitioner. It’s very non-invasive and easy for anyone, especially young kids. We use one of the most comprehensive laboratories, as the quality of the test is vital to get the most accurate results.
What foods are tested
A minimum of 96 foods are tested. These cover all food groups: dairy, seafood, meats, vegetables, grains/legumes, nuts, fruit, honey, yeast + more!
Do you experience any of the signs and symptoms above and haven’t quite put your finger on what the cause is?
Do you have eczema and asthma throughout your family?
If you answered yes to any or both of the above, then a food intolerance test might be the key to unlock your door to good health.
Contact Amanda at Zest+Zing for more information
