Food sensitivities affect around 20% of the population, according to a 2019 article published in Nutrients.
But they’re also hard to diagnose because, unlike food allergies that are an immune reaction, food sensitivities produce digestive reactions because your body is unable to breakdown, digest, and absorb a particular food or substance.
Food allergies also have a very clear reaction, which isn’t the case for food sensitivities which can have a wide range of digestive reactions, such as:
- Bloating, cramping or gas
- Moodiness, anxiety, or depression
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue, insomnia, or trouble concentrating
- Headaches or migraines
- Weight gain or troubles losing weight
- Irritability or nervousness
- Rash or hives
- Acne, eczema, or rosacea
Where I see new clients the most frustrated is when they can’t pinpoint which foods they’re reacting to, or if their symptoms are even related to a food sensitivity in the first place.
So, how do you know what foods you may be reacting to? Here are some of the most common sensitivities according to a 2009 study on The Differential Diagnosis of Food Intolerance, as well as what I see regularly through testing in my practice:
- FODMAPs
- Dairy
- Gluten
- Amines
- Salicylates
- Eggs
- Almonds
- Fructose
- Sulfites
- Caffeine
Now, before you go eliminating all of these from your diet, which is way too overwhelming to do on your own, it’s important to know your options in dealing with possible food sensitivities.
IF YOU’RE NOT SURE YOUR SYMPTOMS ARE RELATED TO FOOD SENSITIVITIES
Start by doing a 7-day food journal self-analysis. It’s free, quick, and can give you some simple answers as to whether or not your digestive symptoms may be related to a food sensitivity.
Try my FREE 7-Day Food Journal Challenge if you want some clear direction on how to use and analyze a food journal.
If you’re still not sure if your symptoms are related to food, book in a free 15-Minute Mini-Consultation and let’s chat!
IF YOU THINK YOUR SYMPTOMS ARE RELATED TO FOOD SENSITIVITIES AND WANT TO TAKE AFFORDABLE ACTION
An elimination diet is going to be your best bet. It’s effective and cheap, but definitely requires commitment, time, and hard work.
The good news is that this process, if done right, can be the best at addressing symptoms, finding answers, and beginning the healing process all at the same time.
An effective elimination diet should take no more than 4-weeks, include a proper re-introduction of foods, and provide experienced nutritional support along the way.
This is really the most cost-effective way to address a food sensitivity if you’re okay with it taking time.
I provide my clients with a simple to follow 4-Step Elimination Diet Program that includes recipes, meal plans, a supportive supplement protocol, and more. My clients seriously love this program.
If you’re interested in taking this route, book an Initial Consultation and let’s get started!
IF YOU THINK YOUR SYMPTOMS ARE RELATED TO FOOD SENSITIVITIES AND WANT TO SEE RESULTS QUICKLY
An IgG Food Sensitivity test is pricey but worth it! You’ll get personalized results that tell you exactly what foods to avoid helping you find relief almost instantly.
But the work doesn’t end there.
The goal is always to re-introduce the foods and be able to enjoy a non-restrictive diet. This requires healing, individual nutritional support, and proper re-introduction of these foods into the diet.
Remember – you shouldn’t be reacting to foods. If you are, it’s your body’s way of giving you an external sign of an internal problem.
We want to heal your body so you don’t have to fear food or be on a restrictive diet. Food freedom and healing should be your long-term goal!
