Food intolerance/sensitivity testing has become very popular. Many of these tests claim that there is a link between food intolerances and a whole host of medical conditions including headaches, chronic fatigue, bloating, skin issues etc.

However, can you actually test for a food intolerance? Are these tests valid and supported by scientific evidence?

Let’s find out!

---

First of all, let’s look at the differences between food allergies and food intolerances.

Food allergies are IgE mediated, which can be tested. However, when it comes to food intolerances, it becomes a lot trickier. To date, there is no valid test for food intolerances.

Food intolerance testing looks at IgG. According to the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, many samples show positive IgG4 results WITHOUT clinical symptoms. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology also mentions that IgG and IgG subclass antibody tests for food allergies are not validated, have no clinical relevance, lack sufficient quality control, and should not be performed. This is also in line with the Canadian Society of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, where they strongly advice against these tests for the purpose of predicting or identifying adverse food reactions.

---

The other thing that typically happens after these tests is that individuals may start to improve their diet – including more fruits, vegetables etc, which does improve overall health and wellbeing AKA they may start feeling better!

---

• You end up avoiding and cutting out foods that you are not intolerant to
• Potential nutrient deficiencies
• Unnecessary stress
• Risk of developing disordered eating behaviours and anxiety around food

In short, these tests are NOT VALID and a total waste of money.

If you think you might have an issue, PLEASE seek help from a qualified doctor/health professional/dietitian.

Questions?

References: