Food Sensitivity Testing

At the Natural Family Health Clinic, we believe in listening closely to your body’s subtle signals. One area where these signals can often be overlooked is your response to certain foods. Food sensitivities can manifest in various ways, and sometimes, these symptoms might not immediately appear connected to what you eat.

Food sensitivities are delayed reactions to specific foods mediated by the immune system. These reactions can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Digestive issues: Bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)   
• Skin problems: Eczema, hives, acne   
• Respiratory issues: Asthma, sinus congestion   
• Headaches or migraines   
• Fatigue or brain fog   
• Joint pain
• Mood swings
• Cardiometabolic shifts in blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure

Unlike food allergies, which are immediate and often severe, food sensitivities can be subtle and take hours or even days to manifest. This can make them difficult to pinpoint without proper testing.

At the Natural Family Health Clinic, we offer comprehensive food sensitivity testing to help identify which foods may be causing you trouble. Our testing involves analyzing your blood for specific antibodies associated with delayed food reactions. This can provide valuable insights into potential triggers for your symptoms.   

We understand that navigating food sensitivities can be overwhelming. Our experienced healthcare professionals are here to guide you every step of the way, offering personalized support and dietary recommendations based on your test results.

• Identify triggers: By identifying the specific foods triggering your immune system, you can make informed dietary choices and reduce subsequent reactions and symptoms.
• Improve overall health: Addressing food sensitivities can improve various health conditions, such as digestive issues, skin problems, and respiratory conditions.
• Increase energy and well-being: Removing problematic foods from your diet can boost your energy levels and improve your overall well-being.
• Empowerment: Understanding your body’s unique response to different foods allows you to take control of your health and make informed choices that support your optimal wellness.

Our food sensitivity testing is simple and convenient. It typically involves a blood draw, and results are available within a few weeks. Once we receive your results, our healthcare team will schedule a consultation to review your findings and discuss your next steps.   

At the Natural Family Health Clinic, we understand that everyone’s journey to wellness is different. We offer personalized support to help you implement dietary changes and develop strategies for managing your food sensitivities. This may include:

• Guidance reading food labels and navigating dining out
• Offering suggestions for alternative foods and ingredients
• Recommending supplements to support your gut health
• Embrace a Path to Wellness

Food sensitivity testing can be a powerful tool for uncovering hidden triggers and optimizing your health. By understanding your body’s unique response to different foods, you can make informed choices that support your overall well-being.

Food sensitivities can manifest in various ways, often with delayed symptoms that can be easily overlooked. Here are some common examples:

1. Gluten Sensitivity and Digestive Distress: A patient might experience bloating, gas, and abdominal pain after consuming gluten-containing foods like bread, pasta, or baked goods. This sensitivity, distinct from celiac disease, can significantly impact digestive health and overall well-being.
   
2. Dairy Dilemma and Skin Issues: Someone sensitive to dairy might notice increased acne breakouts or eczema flare-ups after consuming milk, cheese, or yogurt. These skin reactions can be frustrating and impact self-esteem.
   
3. Hidden Headaches from Histamine: Histamine, a compound found in certain foods like aged cheese, fermented foods, and processed meats, can trigger headaches or migraines in sensitive individuals. Identifying and avoiding these triggers can lead to significant relief.
   
4. Nightshades and Joint Pain: For some, nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, and peppers can contribute to joint pain and inflammation. Removing these foods from the diet may help reduce discomfort and improve mobility.
   
5. Sugar and Mood Swings: Consuming excessive sugar can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to irritability, mood swings, and fatigue in sensitive individuals. Recognizing this connection can help stabilize energy levels and improve emotional well-being.
   
6. Sulfites and Respiratory Issues: Sulfites, used as preservatives in some foods and beverages, can trigger asthma symptoms or breathing difficulties in sensitive individuals. Identifying and avoiding these hidden triggers can promote respiratory health.
   
7. FODMAPs and IBS: ¹Fermentable oligosaccharides, ²disaccharides, ³monosaccharides, and ⁴polyols (FODMAPs) are a group of carbohydrates that can cause digestive issues in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Identifying and managing FODMAP intake can significantly improve IBS symptoms.

These are just a few examples of how food sensitivities can manifest in real-life scenarios. By identifying and addressing these triggers through comprehensive testing and personalized guidance, you can reclaim your health and enjoy a life free from discomfort and limitations.

If you’re experiencing symptoms that you suspect may be related to food sensitivities, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at the Natural Family Health Clinic. Our team is committed to helping you identify the root cause of your health concern and empowering you to make positive changes that lead to lasting wellness.

At the Natural Family Health Clinic, we support you on your journey to optimal health. We believe in your body’s innate ability to heal and are dedicated to providing you with the knowledge and tools you need to thrive.

1. Fermentable Oligosaccharides: Think of these as complex sugars found in foods like onions, garlic, beans, and wheat. They can be a bit challenging for your gut to break down, sometimes leading to gas and bloating. ↩︎
2. Disaccharides: These are double sugars, like lactose found in dairy products. Some people have trouble digesting lactose, which can cause tummy upset. ↩︎
3. Monosaccharides: These are simple sugars, like fructose found in fruits and honey. While easier to digest than other sugars, some folks are sensitive to fructose and might experience bloating or gas. ↩︎
4. Polyols: These are sugar alcohols often used as sweeteners in sugar-free foods. They can be slow to digest and might cause digestive issues for some people. ↩︎