You In the past five years, many companies have released do-it-yourself home kits to test for food allergies and/or sensitivities; however, does the research and application of these stand up to those performed at the doctor's office? Though these kits provide the convenience, it is not recommended to replace them with a doctor's visit. Not knowing the science, how to interpret results, and acting on them to be proactive on your health may do more harm than good. This includes an increased risk for disordered eating and nutritional deficiencies. You may choose to perform these tests at your discretion, but be advised that you should continue to seek professional medical guidance to interpret your results, identify the root cause, and a plan of action for your well-being.
The most accurate resource to get food allergy testing done is by an immunologist or an allergist at your clinic or hospital by a medical provider. Like many medical providers, the immunologist or allergist will conduct a thorough exam and history to get an idea on what has been happening lately when you eat or is exposed to certain foods. After that they will either perform a skin prick test or blood testing to isolate the root cause of your food-related issues.
Food allergy tests measure immunoglobulin E, or simply IgE. IgE is an antibody (protein) that your body produces at the time of exposure to a food, causing an autoimmune reaction. Autoimmune reactions include rashes, hives, teary eyes, stuffy nose, vomiting, difficulty breathing, and possibly anaphylaxis.
The most common allergen test is the skin prick test, or SPT. During this test, the medical provider places a drop of liquid containing the food allergen on your forearm or back (see picture above). When testing fruits or vegetables, fresh food may be used instead of a solution. Using a small plastic probe or needle, the medical provider gently pricks or scratches the skin to allow a tiny amount of the solution to enter just below the surface. The SPT is generally not painful and there is no bleeding. Depending on your case history, you may be tested for one food or several. Results usually appear within 30 minutes. Positive results are indicated by a wheal – a raised white bump surrounded by a small circle of itchy red skin. In general, a large wheal is more likely to indicate a true food allergy, but size is not always an accurate predictor. If no wheal appears, it is unlikely that you are allergic to the test food.