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.

Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance: What's the Difference?

June 25, 2023

When it comes to adverse reactions to food, it's important to understand the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance. Though the terms are often used interchangeably, they involve distinct mechanisms and have different implications for our health. In this blog post, we will delve into the disparities between food allergies and food intolerances, helping you better comprehend these conditions and how they affect your body. Let's explore!

What is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy is an immune-mediated response triggered by specific proteins in certain foods. When an individual with a food allergy consumes an allergenic food, their immune system perceives it as a threat and releases immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to fight against it. This immune response can cause immediate and potentially life-threatening symptoms, such as hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis.

Common Food Allergies:

Peanuts
Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
Shellfish
Fish
Eggs
Milk
Wheat
Soy
Sesame
Mustard

Diagnosing Food Allergies: Food allergies are typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, skin prick tests, and blood tests. If you suspect you have a food allergy, it is crucial to consult with an allergist for accurate diagnosis and proper management.

Food Allergy Management: The primary management strategy for food allergies is strict avoidance of the allergenic food(s). Individuals with severe food allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) in case of accidental exposure and anaphylactic reactions. It is essential to read food labels carefully, inform restaurants about your allergies, and be vigilant about cross-contamination.

What is a Food Intolerance?

Unlike food allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system. Food intolerances occur when the body lacks certain enzymes or mechanisms necessary to digest or process specific components in food. The most common food intolerances include lactose intolerance (inability to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk), gluten intolerance (celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity), and histamine intolerance.

Common Food Intolerances:

Lactose intolerance
Gluten intolerance
Histamine intolerance
Fructose malabsorption
FODMAP intolerance (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols)

Symptoms of Food Intolerance: Food intolerance symptoms may vary and usually manifest as digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. Non-digestive symptoms like headaches, skin rashes, and fatigue can also occur. Unlike food allergies, food intolerances generally have a delayed onset and are not life-threatening.

Diagnosing Food Intolerances: Diagnosing food intolerances can be challenging as there is no specific diagnostic test like the ones used for allergies. It often involves a process of elimination, where specific foods are temporarily eliminated from the diet and then reintroduced to observe symptom patterns. Consultation with a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, can provide guidance and support in identifying food intolerances.

Food Intolerance Management: Managing food intolerances primarily involves avoiding or minimising consumption of the specific food(s) causing the intolerance. In some cases, enzyme supplements or dietary modifications may be recommended to alleviate symptoms. Working with a healthcare professional can help tailor an appropriate diet plan to meet your nutritional needs while avoiding trigger foods.

Distinguishing between food allergies and food intolerances is crucial for proper diagnosis, management, and overall well-being. While food allergies involve an immune response and can be life-threatening, food intolerances primarily involve difficulty digesting or processing certain components in food, resulting in digestive and other related symptoms.

If you suspect you have a food allergy or intolerance, why not purchase one of our home food intolerance tests today?

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