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.

Common Food Intolerances in the UK

December 18, 2022

While someone can have a food intolerance to all sorts of foods and food groups, there are some that are more common than others. Here at Supply Life, our aim is to help our customers to understand their bodies, providing food intolerance testing services to detect both common and hard-to-uncover intolerances.

In the UK, the most common food intolerances are lactose, casein, and gluten, with the number of sufferers of these intolerance on the incline. In this blog post, we explore these three common food intolerances, explaining the ailments a sufferer will experience as well as foods to steer clear of.

Lactose Intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a digestive system disorder that occurs when the body is unable to completely break down lactose, a sugar in milk and other dairy products. It can be responsible for many symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea.

Gluten Intolerance

Gluten intolerance, or celiac disease, is an autoimmune disorder that is triggered by the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, and weight loss.

Casein Intolerance

Casein intolerance is a condition in which a person has difficulty digesting the protein casein, which is found in milk and dairy products. People with casein intolerance may experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain after consuming dairy products. Some people with casein intolerance may also have a cow's milk allergy, which is a different condition that can cause more severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and hives. If you think you may have casein intolerance or a cow's milk allergy, it is important to talk to a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Should I Take a Food Intolerance Test?

It can be a good idea to consider getting a food intolerance test if you have symptoms that you think may be related to your diet, such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, or headaches. A food intolerance test can help identify specific foods that may be causing these symptoms and allow you to make changes to your diet to help alleviate them.

However, it's important to choose the right food intolerance test.

It's also possible that your symptoms may be caused by something other than a food intolerance, such as a medical condition or a food allergy. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help you determine the best course of action based on your specific situation.

Order your Home Food Intolerance Test

You can order home food intolerance tests on this very website right now! With quick turnaround times, you could be just moments away from starting your journey to better health.

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