The popularity of food intolerance tests has been gradually increasing. We observed that the volume of these tests has increased threefold during the last year. Many nutritionists and functional medicine specialists love to suggest a panel of food intolerance tests to their clients.
You may have many queries like the following:
- What is a food intolerance test?
- Are both food intolerance and food allergy the same?
- What is the sample type?
- What are the significances of the tests?
- Is it easily available?
- What type of preparations do I need to go for before the test?
- Does it involve any risk?
- How much does a food intolerance panel cost?
- When can I expect the report?
- How can I interpret the report?
Here’re the answers to these common queries.
What is a food intolerance test profile?
A food intolerance profile is a panel of IgG-based blood tests that detect your body’s sensitivity or intolerance to certain types of food items. Such a test can help the root cause of many abdominal issues and symptoms.
What are the symptoms of food intolerance?
A few of the common symptoms of food intolerance are:
1. Bloating and gas
2. Abdominal pain
3. Diarrhea
4. headache
5. Migraine
6. Nausea
7. Vomiting
8. Upset stomach
9. HeartburnAre both food intolerance and food allergy the same?
No, both are different. While a food intolerance test can help find the root cause of an abdominal issue, a food allergy test diagnoses allergic reactions like itching, sneezing, runny nose, asthma, etc. Furthermore, while a food intolerance test is based on IgG antibody diagnosis technology, a food allergy panel uses the IgE method.
What is the sample type for a food intolerance test?
A food intolerance test needs a few milliliters of blood sample. The lab separates the serum from the blood sample before the test.
What is the significance of a food intolerance test?
A food intolerance test can help you in many ways, such as,
1. It can help you determine which types of food trigger intolerance or sensitivity to you.
2. It can help you avoid harmful food and modify your diet.
3. It can help you make an informed decision to change your lifestyle
4. Diet and lifestyle changes after the test can help you get relief from many abdominal issues.
5. Finally, the test can improve your quality of life.
Is it easily available in India?
Yes, it’s easily available in many cities in India. The major labs offering this test in India are – Thyrocare, DNA Lab, Metropolis, and Apollo.
How much does a food intolerance test profile cost?
A food intolerance panel price varies from lab to lab and selling platform to platform. The average cost is around ₹9,000. The minimum cost can be ₹7,500, and the maximum may go up to ₹12,000. At Healthcare Offers, the offer price of the same is ₹7,499.
Does a food intolerance test involve any risk?
No, there is no major risk with the food intolerance test except a minor needle-pricking sensation in your veins. It’s a simple blood test. In rare cases, you may experience swelling or itching at the pricing site.
Do I need any preparation before the test?
No, you don’t need any preparation. You neither need fasting nor any other type of precaution. You can give a sample at any time you wish for a food intolerance test.
When can I expect the report of a food intolerance panel test?
For a food intolerance profile, you can expect the report within three to four days of the sample collection.
How can I interpret the report of a food intolerance panel
Interpreting the report of a food intolerance profile is very easy. The report comes in three colors – red, yellow, and green. If a food name is in Red in the report, you should completely avoid it. Like this, you should moderately avoid the food items that are in Yellow. Food types in Green are fully safe for you
Can you share a sample report of a food intolerance profile?
Yes, please find the same below:
Useful Links
To know more about food intolerance, you may visit the following webpages:
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21688-food-intolerance
- https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/food-allergy-testing/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/263965
