Most people are aware of food allergies. Everyone knows someone who has an allergy to peanuts, strawberries, shellfish, or some other food. However, what most people are not aware of are Food Sensitivities.

True food allergies are based on exposure to a specific protein component of a food. The immune system incorrectly perceives the protein as a threat and produces antibodies in response. The reaction to a food allergy is usually immediate and severe, and can even be fatal. True food allergies are estimated to affect less than 2 percent of adults and 4 to 8 percent of young children and infants.

Other common indications of food sensitivities include:

• Bloating or Irregular Digestion
• Irritable Bowels & Reflux
• Skin Rashes of any kind
• Runny Rose or Excess Mucus
• Muscle/Joint Aches and Pains
• Depression and Mood Swings

What Exactly are Food Sensitivities?

Food sensitivity on the other-hand is extremely common. In fact, in over 9 years of testing patients we have observed that virtually everyone has at least some degree of sensitivity to one or more foods. The most common sensitivities we observe are to Gluten, Corn, Diary, Soy, and Eggs, which is no surprise since our diets have become bombarded with these foods. These 5 foods make up nearly 75% of all food sensitivities.

Food sensitivities may arise for various reasons and cause a wide variety of symptoms, making it complex and oftentimes confusing. In general, food sensitivities are the result of toxic responses to food. Identifying food sensitivity without laboratory testing can be extremely difficult because symptoms may be delayed for up to two days after a food has been consumed.

Signs That You May Have Food Sensitivity

A very common symptom of food allergies is dark circles underneath the eyes, which indicates a negative liver response to a food. Another common symptom is feeling tired or mentally foggy after eating. Have you heard of the term “food coma”? Somehow it’s become a commonly accepted term and side effect of eating. If you are eating food that nourishes and supports you, you should feel clear and energized after eating it…not foggy and drained.

How Can You Accurately Detect Your Food Sensitivities?

Laboratory testing is the easiest and most accurate way to identify your specific food sensitivities. The test I use in my practice is a 96IGG food sensitivity test, which tests for 96 different foods. The results are usually returned within 3 weeks. Once results are received, the results are reviewed and interpreted by a physician and a personalized eating plan is prepared.

Your eating plan should include a rotation diet, shopping lists, foods to avoid, and food substitutions you can make. For example, substituting cashew butter for peanut butter, or substituting coconut flour for wheat flour. Most patients are on a rotation diet for 6 months and then can slowly re-introduce certain foods back into their diet one at a time to determine if the sensitivity has resolved itself. We recommend re-testing every 6-12 months.

Find Out Which Foods Are Making YOU Sick!

Knowledge is power. To discover your specific food sensitivities and get on a customized eating plan for optimal health, request a Free Consultation today. Call (218) 313-7435 or Request a Consultation Online. We would love to discuss this service with you in more detail and answer any questions you have!