Food Testing

IgG Intolerance Test assessing 59 foods.

Overview

Food Intolerance occurs when the body exhibits an adverse reaction to specific foods. Symptoms may be delayed and reactions can produce a wide variety of symptoms making it difficult to self-diagnose.

The Food Detective Test is a world first in-clinic intolerance test developed by Cambridge Nutritional Sciences. A blood sample (finger prick) picks up the presence of IgG antibodies to specific foods which are produced in response to a food intolerance. The test is simple, safe, accurate and fast with results available in 40 minutes.

This test assesses the 59 most common involved in food intolerance and determines if the reaction is mild, moderate or severe.

*Please Note – Food Intolerance Testing is available on Saturday only and bookings can be made via reception on (03) 9717 1130. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What 59 foods are assessed?

Milk – Cows, Rice, Almond, Soy

Cereals – Wheat, Corn, Gluten, Oats, Rye, Rice

Nuts & Legumes – Almonds, Walnuts, Cashews, Peanuts, Legume Mix (pea, lentil, haricot), Soy Bean

Meat – Beef, Chicken, Lamb, Pork

Fish – Freshwater Fish Mix, Shellfish Mix, Tuna, White Fish Mix (haddock, cod)

Vegetables – Broccoli, Cabbage, Carrot, Celery, Cucumber, Leek, Peppers (red, green, yellow), Potato, Mushroom, Garlic, Ginger

Fruits – Apple, Blackcurrant, Grapefruit, Melon Mix, Olive, Orange & Lemon, Strawberry, Tomato

Other – Egg (whole), Tea, Yeast

What are the common symptoms of Food Intolerance?

Digestive system – bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, gastritis, IBS, IBD, malabsorption, weight control problems and water retention.

Skin – red, itchy rashes and dermatitis.

Nervous system – fatigue, anxiety, headaches, migraine, insomnia and sleep disturbance.

Respiratory system – chronic congestion, asthma and sinusitis.

What is the difference between Food Intolerance & Allergy?

The majority of food reactions are caused by a food intolerance (also known as food sensitivity).

The onset of food intolerance symptoms may be delayed and the response may last for up to 48 hours thus food intolerance is difficult to self-diagnose. Food intolerance involves IgG antibodies and will not be picked up via skin prick tests as these are designed for IgE mediated reactions (allergy).

A food allergy occurs when the body’s immune system responds to otherwise benign proteins (allergens) as though they are threats to the system. The response is generally immediate after ingestion of the food (or within 2 hours).

In a classic reaction, the immune system produces IgE antibodies and when these react with the allergen allergic symptoms appear such as itching, swelling, hives & breathing difficulties. Although usually mild, allergic reactions can be very serious.

Do I need to fast or change my eating habits before the test?

No. You do not need to fast or make any changes to the way you are eating prior to the test.

From what age can children be tested?

The ideal age is 18 months onwards. It can be perfomed on younger children in some cases.