A food sensitivity*, (or maybe you know it as a food intolerance?) is an adverse reaction to certain foods we eat. This reaction is directly measured by analysing an antibody called Immunoglobulin G, or IgG, which is in association with an immune response. The reason for this may be due to microbiome imbalances which can also lead to compromised gut linings of which can result in leaky gut. This means larger undigested particles enter the bloodstream and are attacked by our immune system. The breakdown process of this response results in inflammation that manifests in many different ways.
Symptoms of a food sensitivity include:
Bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, IBS**
Headaches or migraines
Eczema, rashes, acne, hives
Fatigue or lethargy
Joint pain
Respiratory symptoms
Why Do Food Sensitivities Develop?
It can be said that food sensitivities can be associated with your favourite foods of which are consumed in high quantities. This protein overload results in an immune overload that triggers our immune system and causes acute inflammation in the form of symptoms.
There are however many other factors to consider:
How food is processed
How intensive animals are reared
Fertilisers used in the farming process
Overconsumption of antibiotics
Genetics
Stress imposed on your life
Imbalanced gut microbiome
Leaky gut syndrome
Lack of variety in the diet
Lack of fibre in the diet
The Vicious Cycle
Understanding your food sensitivities can be challenging, as you may have already tried numerous elimination diets, medications or difficult low FODMAP diets. Does the below look familiar to you?Rather than continuing this vicious cycle for months if not years, why not address the problem at the root cause? FOOD. Food is the easiest thing for us to control. We buy, store, cook and eat food. All in our control, so why not remove the guesswork and make your nutrition work with you, rather than against you?
What Does the Research Tell Us?
It is estimated that nearly 45% of the UK population suffer from these adverse reactions to food***! Unlike a food allergy, that is an instant immune response that can be life-threatening, a food sensitivity typically causes less severe symptoms and may not always be immediately apparent due to their 24-72 hour delay in their reaction. This is why a food sensitivity is difficult to pinpoint without testing.
Research has shown that those who follow a guided elimination diet based on IgG food sensitivity testing can see the below improvements within 3 weeks in some cases****:
82% improvement in bloating
80% improvement to digestive health
72% improvement in lung function
78% improvement from Neurological conditions
76% improvement in skin conditions
64% improvement for joint issues
81% improvement in mind health
What does the testing involve?
Our Food Sensitivity test is a simple home to laboratory testing service, where we will ship your testing kit directly to your home.
What Happens to my Sample?
Through a simple finger pricks test, we can help identify raised IgG (Immunoglobulin G) levels against trigger foods in the diet. Our UK laboratory will analyse your blood against 210 food and drink ingredients. Using gold standard ELISA technology, your exact level of IgG antibody reactions to these ingredients can be identified.
Our Laboratory Commitment- Your Sample Is In Safe Hands
Proud partnership with YourGutMap, a trusted UK laboratory service in food sensitivity IgG 1-4 analysis
ISO 9001 accredited laboratory, ensuring standardisation of testing protocols and rigorous quality controls
2-3 working day turnaround time from the date of receipt in the laboratory
What do I get
A traffic light system of results to identify foods to avoid, limit and consume
Red Foods are to be avoided and replaced for 12 weeks
Amber Foods are to be consumed as treats on a weekend or part of a 4 day rotation cycle
Blue Foods are safe to consume (unless you are allergic to that food)
Quantitative results identifying your level of reactive against 210 food and drinks
An total immune load score to show the current immune stress on the body as a results of your current diet
* Food sensitivity Disclaimer – a food sensitivity is defined as a food specific IgG response. The reaction is measured through IgG responses to foods to help overcome problems associated with adverse delayed immune reactions to food. Our company does not claim to cure any associated diseases or conditions, and always recommend consulting with a GP before undertaking our programme.
** IBS- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects the digestive system. It causes symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. These tend to come and go over time, and can last for days, weeks or months at a time. It’s usually a lifelong problem. It can be very frustrating to live with and can have a big impact on your everyday life.
**** Hardman and Hart- Dietary advice based on food-specific IgG results Geoffrey Hardman Centre for Health Economics, University of York, Heslington, York, UK, and Gillian Hart