What is the test method?

Our food intolerance tests are done using a blood based method covering IgG 1,2,3,4, the blood sample collection process is done via a pin prick to the finger, it takes around 4-5 large droplets.

Why do food cause an IgGantibodies response?

Generally, foods are broken down during digestion into their component parts e.g. amino acids, glycerides etc. These pass harmlessly through the gut as the gut becomes inflamed (bloated) these proteins enter the bloodstream. This is where they are recognized by the immune system as being ‘foreign’. The immune system responds by making IgG antibodies to these foods.

What is the difference between hair and blood based test?

You can't test immune reactions via a hair sample, and in many cases there have been discrepancies in results when parts of the hair have been coloured/bleached. This has led to inconsistency in the sample tested twice. Our IgG 1,2,3,4 blood based testing covers the full range of antibodies responses, this is important, if a particular food elevates any antibodies against it, this means your gut and immune system recognises that food as a threat. This could affect the nutrients absorbed from this particular food and leads to multiple symptoms.

Do high IgG antibody levels cause symptoms?

When a food causes the body to produce high levels of IgG then these antibodies combine with the protein in the food to form an ‘antigen-antibody complex’. These complexes are usually eliminated by other cells in the immune system. However, if the immune system is overloaded, these insoluble molecules become deposited in tissues within the body, causing chronic inflammation and the subsequent production of symptoms.

Why test for IgG antibodies to foods?

The efficacy of a diet based on the measurement of IgG antibodies specific for food components has been demonstrated in a number of conditions, both in independent studies and clinical practice. Excellent results have been obtained in patients with migraine, IBS and obesity.

What is the lower age limit for testing?

Supply Life's existing policy for a lower age limit on testing for IgG food antibodies is that we do not recommend testing on children under the age of 2 years. We base this on the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition Guidelines for the Diagnosis of Coeliac Disease 2012, which states that there is a possibility of false negative results occurring in infants younger than 2 years of age. This related to the fact that the infant gut is more permeable than that of an adult coupled with immature mucosal immunity that is still in the learning and development stage. We have used this criterion as antibody measurements in Coeliac Disease are comparable to food IgG measurements used in our food intolerance tests. However, we are aware that there are in fact no published guidelines that specifically indicate a minimum age for testing for such IgG antibodies, for example the guidelines for testing for coeliac antibodies indicate that such testing can be performed any time after the introduction of gluten into the diet. Therefore, where such requests are received from a statutory regulated professional the decision of when and what tests to perform will remain the responsibility of the requesting clinician.

What should be considered before testing - Is there any medication that I should avoid when taking a food intolerance test, due to its potential effects upon the results?

Customers should avoid the use of immunosuppressant medication if possible if performing these tests, as they may have an impact upon the results. Please refer to the medication datasheet in the “Support” section for further details.

How does the test work?

Food extracts are 'printed' onto nitrocellulose 'pads'™ on a glass microscope slide, together with calibration standards and controls. A blood sample provided by the patient is diluted and dispensed onto each printed microarray. Food IgG antibodies, if present, bind to the food extracts and the results are measured by a high-resolution scanner, before being calibrated against the standards using the reporting software to give quantitative results. This software then produces a tailor-made printout of the final food IgG antibody result for each food on the requested food panel.

Do you need to full the microvette all the way to the white line?

Although it is advisable to completely fill the tube, a half filled microvette tube should be enough to run the test. If there are any problems with a sample and the lab will let the customer know. However, if you are ordering two tests we can test from one sample if you provide a full microvette.

Do you need to store the blood in the fridge, if not sending the same day?

Yes, it does need to be stored in the fridge with the lid secured if not sending on the same day.

Can I upgrade my test to a larger food panel?

You can upgrade for up to a maximum of 4 weeks from the date that your first sample is received.

What are the sample requirements and test turnaround?

A pin-prick blood sample is required. Results are available within 10 working days.

Does the Supply Life test for all subclasses of IgG antibody or only IgG4?

Our process screens for all IgG subclasses 1-4, with the numbers on the test report representing the total IgG concentration for each food extract in the selected panel.

Am I Intolerant to Gluten?

October 24, 2022

It is estimated that 6% of the UK have an intolerance to gluten. While this seems like a high number, this is a food sensitivity that goes largely undiagnosed. This means a huge proportion of UK children and adults are living with the symptoms of a food intolerance - which is something that we at Supply Life aim to change. As well as offering professional food intolerance tests, we also ensure we share our knowledge and advice with our community, advising on ways to limit the impact of an intolerance to help our readers lead a happy, healthy life.

Below, we explore what a gluten intolerance looks like and some telltale signs that you may be intolerant to gluten.

What’s the difference between a gluten allergy and gluten intolerance?

If you have an allergy to gluten, you suffer from Celiac Disease. Research suggests that 1% of the global population have this disease. An allergy would see the body’s immune system overreact after consuming gluten products. The body essentially reacts to gluten as if it were a virus and fights against it. An allergy can have huge impacts on the body long-term, causing inflammation and damage to the digestive tracts.

An intolerance, on the other hand, is a digestive system response. This can result in itching, vomiting, shortness of breath, headaches and severe abdominal pains. A gluten intolerance does not boast any severe long-term health issues.

Signs you may have an intolerance to gluten

Bloating - Bloating is a common sign that your body is not tolerating the food that you consume. If you experience bloating shortly after eating wheat, it could signal that you have a sensitivity to gluten.
Stomach cramps - Although there may be a myriad of reasons for you having stomach aches, gluten is renowned for causing abdominal discomfort to those that are intolerant.
Migraines - Many reports have told of how gluten-intolerant individuals are more prone to migraines than others. According to data, more than 15% of UK adults complain of regular migraines. Having a gluten intolerance can also be connected to ‘brain fog’, that feeling where you just do not feel right in yourself.
Depression and anxiety - People who suffer from digestive issues are more susceptible to anxiety, depression and other mental health issues. This is largely due to the fact that food sensitivities can be stressful and in some cases, life-limiting.
Skin issues - Some bodies react to gluten with skin issues, with rashes, itchiness and acne being common responses to a gluten intolerance.

How can a food intolerance test help me?

If you are experiencing symptoms such as those mentioned above, it may well be time to take a food intolerance test. When using Supply Life for your food intolerance tests, we will provide much more than a diagnosis. As well as providing your results within 7 days, we will also offer support, meal plans and guidance on how best to limit the impact your intolerance has on your life.

Compare our three food intolerance tests today and make the first move in achieving enhanced gut health.

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