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.

Lactose Free Autumn Recipes

October 7, 2022

With October now well and truly here, many of us will start to feel Autumny, wanting that homely and warm vibe when it comes to food. However, for many Lactose intolerance individuals, Autumn food trends are a no-go, leaving sufferers disheartened and unsure of what to cook as the colder nights draw in.

Here at Supply Life, our whole ethos is centred around helping those with intolerances and food sensitivities, providing them with the information and support to live life to the full. This is why today, we are happy to share some dairy-free Autumn recipes with you, giving our intolerant readers some much-needed cooking inspiration.

Lactose-free Macaroni Cheese

There is nothing more comforting than a big bowl of cheesy pasta on a crisp Autumn night. This is why this Lactose-free Macaroni Cheese recipe is sure to be a winner with the whole family. The dish takes 10 minutes to prepare, 20 minutes to cook and can serve four people.

Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp plain flour
500ml lactose-free milk
125g lactose-free cheese
2 tsp Dijon mustard
250g elbow macaroni or short pasta
3 tbsp dried breadcrumbs
pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper

Method

First, we start with the cheese sauce. Whisk your olive oil and flour together until smooth. Heat the mixture up on a medium heat until nice and thick. Then, slowly add in your lactose-free milk, cheese and mustard. This is your cheese sauce.

Fill a dish with your dried pasta and pour over your cheese sauce. Sprinkle your breadcrumbs and a pinch of paprika on top of the dish and it’s ready for the oven! Bake for 20 minutes at 200 degrees and enjoy!

Spicy Autumn Soup

Autumn is soup season, with heart-warming soups being a staple food for many. This particular soup recipe packs a real punch and is 100% lactose-free.

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic
2 cm ginger
1 onion
½ tsp chili powder
½ tsp turmeric
3 pints vegetable stock
1 medium butternut squash, cut into chunks
1 large sweet potato, cut into chunks
4 large carrots, sliced
salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Method

Heat your oil in a large pan before adding the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, chilli powder and turmeric. Then add your vegetables and pepper, let the mixture boil for 30 minutes and then blend until it’s a smooth consistency. Serve the soup hot with crusty bread.

Lactose-free Hearty Breakfast Hash

As the saying goes, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But, with many classic breakfast recipes involving milk, eggs or both, many lactose-free eaters struggle to find good, healthy foods to start the day. Here we Supply Life, but we highly recommend this hearty breakfast hash which is packed with delicious flavours.

Ingredients

1 onion
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 medium sweet potatoes
3 large potatoes
1/2 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. dried rosemary leaves
1/4 tsp. dried thyme leaves
1/4 tsp. dried sage
1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
1/4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
1 apple

Method

This is an easy one. Heat the oil in a large pan and add in your vegetables (diced). Sautee for 5-6 minutes before adding in your spices. Give everything a mix and place the mixture into a dish. Pop the dish in the oven at 180 degrees for around 20 minutes. This is a great one to warm up on a cold Autumn morning.

Think You're Lactose-intolerant?

If you're experiencing health issues such as diarrhoea, a bloated stomach, stomach cramping, stomach rumbling and feeling sick, then we advise taking a food intolerance test. This will allow you to pinpoint or rule out whether these ailments are due to an intolerance to lactose, a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products.

You can order a home food intolerance test through Supply Life today. Compare your food intolerance test options and place your order today.

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