Food Allergy Testing: What You Need to Know

Do you suspect certain foods may be causing symptoms like fatigue, digestive issues, headaches, or skin problems? Getting tested for food allergies and sensitivities could provide answers. Read on to learn about food allergy testing at Back to Health Chiropractic Center in Findlay, OH.

IgG and IgE Food Allergy Tests

Two main lab tests detect antibodies tied to food reactions:

• IgG blood test: Checks for delayed food sensitivities by measuring IgG antibodies. Reactions may occur hours or days after eating a food.
• IgE blood and skin prick tests: Detect immediate food allergies by measuring IgE antibodies. Symptoms happen rapidly after exposure.

Knowing your IgE and IgG levels for commonly eaten foods provides insight into problematic ingredients.

Most Likely Food Allergy Offenders

While any food can cause a reaction, the most common food allergy and sensitivity culprits include:

• Cow’s milk
• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts
• Soy
• Wheat
• Shellfish
• Fish

Your chiropractor may test for reactions to dozens of other foods as well.

What to Expect During Testing

Food allergy testing is done using a simple blood draw or skin prick method. For an IgG test, your chiropractor will take a small blood sample and send it to a lab. For immediate IgE allergies, small amounts of foods will be applied to your skin using tiny pricks. Reactions show up as localized bumps or redness.

Using Test Results to Guide Diet Changes

Based on your test results, your chiropractor will advise which foods to limit or avoid. You’ll receive guidance on making meal modifications, suitable ingredient swaps, label reading, dining-out strategies, and more. Diet changes will ease symptoms while helping to rebalance your immune system.

Integrating Other Allergy Treatments

In addition to dietary changes, your chiropractor may suggest nutritional supplements, stress reduction techniques, probiotics, and chiropractic adjustments to address underlying immune imbalances related to food reactions. Relief is often quicker and more complete with comprehensive functional medicine treatments.

Contact Back to Health Chiropractic Center in Findlay, OH

Understanding your body’s unique reaction to foods is the first step toward feeling better. Get tested for allergies and sensitivities today with your knowledgeable chiropractor near you in Findlay, OH. Regain your best health with a personalized food allergy treatment plan.