Food Allergy (Sensitivity) Panel

Food Allergy (Sensitivity) Panel

Why would I want a Food Allergy Panel and what is it?

A food reaction is an abnormal response in the gastrointestinal (GI) system to food that can occur for a variety of reasons. In some cases, like lactose intolerance, there may not be enough of a particular enzyme to digest a specific food correctly. In other cases, the immune system creates antibodies to proteins in foods. When a food reaction involves the immune system in this way, it is called a food allergy (sometimes referred to as a food sensitivity).

When the immune system reacts to a food, it can lead to inflammation and irritation in the intestine each time the particular food is consumed. Food allergies can range in severity from immediate, sometimes life-threatening reactions (anaphylaxis) to milder symptoms such a gas and bloating. They can also develop as a result of another health condition.

Many food allergies produce minimal symptoms, yet if untreated, the long-term consequences can be astonishing and may involve the development of conditions in many different organ systems. The Diagnos-Techs Food Allergy Panel tests your saliva for antibodies to four of the most common food allergens.

Common Misconceptions
Food allergies are conditions of childhood. False: Food allergies can be present at any age, and in some instances may be lifelong.

Food allergies are only present in symptomatic patients. False: Food allergies can be silent in many individuals. The absence of symptoms, however, does not mean that inflammation and damage is not occurring.

Food allergies are simply intestinal irritations. False: Food allergies cause an immune reaction and may contribute to a wide range of symptoms that do not involve the intestine. It is even possible for some patients to experience only symptoms outside of the GI system.

Gut Manifestations of Food Allergies

• Diarrhea or soft stools
• Constipation
• Gas and bloating
• Gastroesophageal reflux or GERD
• Malabsorption of valuable minerals and nutrients

Consequences of Malabsorption and Nutritional Deficiencies

• Mouth ulcers
• Osteopenia or osteoporosis
• Anemia
• Numbness, tingling and other nerve symptoms
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Skin disorders

Food Allergy Symptoms Beyond the Gut

Skin: Hives, dermatitis (rash), eczema, swelling (edema) 

Joints: Pain and inflammation 

Respiratory: Runny nose, asthma, nasal congestion, inflamed sinuses 

Heiner syndrome: A chronic lung disease caused by allergy to cow’s milk 

Brain: Headache, migraine, sleeplessness, irritability 

Immune: Decreased immune function with increased cortisol levels 

Blood: Anemia, issues with blood clotting 

Fatigue: Decreased energy due to anemia or poor absorption of nutrients 

Weight loss

Possible Manifestations Associated with Untreated Food Allergies

Immune System Impairment 

Frequent infections due to elevated cortisol 

Autoimmune Disease 
Liver and bile duct disorders, type I diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) 

Cancer 
Lymphoma, gastrointestinal cancer 

Thyroid Conditions 
Hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism 

Decreased Bone Mineral Density 
Osteopenia, osteoporosis 

Reproductive System Dysfunction 
Impotence, infertility (males and females), menstrual irregularities 

Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders 
Postural imbalance, nerve tingling, depression, anxiety

The Food Allergy (Sensitivity) Panel tests for an immune response to four of the most common food allergens: gluten, soy, milk and egg proteins.

Antibodies to these foods can easily be tested for from a non-invasive saliva sample, providing information that can aid in successful treatment.

Integrity will provide a consultation and devise a course of action to help repair the issues that may have occurred. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!