Food Allergy: The Real Dill! Food Sensitivity? Not Eggs-actly…

On this week’s episode of the pod, we tackle the common question: “do food sensitivity tests work?”

To answer this, we bring on Dr. David Stukus, clinical allergist and immunologist. First, we discuss the differences between food allergies, intolerances, and the very vague term ‘sensitivity’. We chat about what true food allergy and intolerances are, and how they can be diagnosed. We then jump into the term food sensitivity, and the principle of many of these at-home food sensitivity tests. We spend some time discussing how these tests work, which are based on measuring a type of antibody called IgG, and how that does not indicate whether someone is ‘sensitive’ to a given food. We wrap up with some practical guidance on what to do if you suspect a food allergy, as well as the warning to not seek clinical advice from a stranger online!

PLEASE NOTE: The discussion and information provided in this podcast are for general educational, scientific, and informational purposes only and are not intended as, and should not be treated as, medical or other professional advice for any particular individual or individuals.  Every person and medical issue is different, and diagnosis and treatment requires consideration of specific facts often unique to the individual.  As such, the information contained in this podcast should not be used as a substitute for consultation with and/or treatment by a doctor or other medical professional.  If you are experiencing any medical issue or have any medical concern, you should consult with a doctor or other medical professional. 

Further, due to the inherent limitations of a podcast such as this as well as ongoing scientific developments, we do not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of the information or analysis provided in this podcast, although, of course we always endeavor to provide comprehensive information and analysis. In no event may Unbiased Science or any of the participants in this podcast be held liable to the listener or anyone else for any decision allegedly made or action allegedly taken or not taken allegedly in reliance on the discussion or information in this podcast or for any damages allegedly resulting from such reliance.

RESOURCES

• Let's Focus on Food-Allergy Prevention | Dr. Kari Nadeau | TEDxPaloAlto

• Global Trends in Anaphylaxis Epidemiology and Clinical Implications

• Food Allergy Among Children in the United States

• England: Huge Rise in Children Hospitalised with Severe Allergic Reactions

• The Epidemiology of Food Allergy in the Global Context

• Why Food Allergies Are on the Rise

• Testing for IgG4 Against Foods Is Not Recommended as a Diagnostic Tool: EAACI Task Force Report

• Allergy Diagnostic Testing: An Updated Practice Parameter

• The Myth of IgG Food Panel Testing

• Food Elimination Based on IgG Antibodies in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Randomised Controlled Trial

• Variable Food-Specific IgG Antibody Levels in Healthy and Symptomatic Chinese Adults