Food Sensitivities and Inflammation
Food sensitivity and intolerances have become increasingly common in recent years. It is estimated that up to 20% of the population may suffer from food sensitivities or intolerances, which can lead to a range of digestive problems and other health issues. Understanding your body's reaction to certain foods is important for gut healing, reducing inflammation, and improving overall wellness.
Food sensitivities and intolerances occur when your body has an adverse reaction to certain foods. This can be due to a variety of factors, including genetics, gut health, and environmental factors. In some cases, these reactions may be mild and go unnoticed, while in others they can be severe and debilitating.
One of the most common reactions to food sensitivities and intolerances is inflammation. When your body is exposed to a food that it is sensitive to, it may trigger an inflammatory response. This inflammation can manifest in a variety of ways, including bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and even skin rashes or eczema.
Over time, chronic inflammation can lead to more serious health problems, such as autoimmune diseases, heart disease, and even cancer. By identifying and eliminating foods that trigger inflammation, you can help to reduce inflammation throughout your body, leading to better gut health and overall wellness.
Identifying food sensitivities and intolerances can be done through a variety of methods. One of the most common approaches is through an elimination diet. This involves removing certain foods from your diet for a period of time, typically two to four weeks, and then slowly reintroducing them to see how your body reacts.
Another method is through food sensitivity testing. This involves testing your blood for antibodies that are produced in response to specific foods. While this method can be helpful in identifying food sensitivities, it is not foolproof and can be expensive. However, the gold standard food sensitivity test that is highly recommened by licensed functional dietitians is called Meditator Release Test, also known as MRT.
The Mediator Release Test (MRT) is a blood test that measures the release of mediators, such as histamine, cytokines, and prostaglandins, in response to certain foods and food chemicals. The test is designed to identify foods and food chemicals that may be causing a patient's symptoms, such as headaches, fatigue, digestive problems, and skin issues.
During the test, a small sample of the patient's blood is drawn and exposed to a panel of 176 different foods and food chemicals. The blood is then analyzed to determine which foods and chemicals caused the release of mediators. The results are reported as a scale of reactivity, ranging from "highly reactive" to "non-reactive."
The MRT is considered to be a type of food sensitivity test and is sometimes referred to as a "delayed hypersensitivity test." It differs from other food sensitivity tests, such as IgG antibody testing, which measures the presence of antibodies to specific foods.
Proponents of the MRT is a more accurate and reliable test than other food sensitivity tests because it measures the actual physiological response to foods, rather than just the presence of antibodies.Once you have identified your food sensitivities and intolerances, it is important to eliminate these foods from your diet. This can be challenging, especially if you have a strong emotional attachment to certain foods or if they are a staple in your diet. However, with time and support, it is possible to make dietary changes that will support your gut healing and overall wellness.
Overall, the MRT may be useful for individuals who are experiencing chronic symptoms that have not been successfully addressed through other means. It is important to note, however, that the test should be used as part of a comprehensive diagnostic approach and not relied upon as the sole means of identifying problematic foods or food chemicals.
Additionally, it is important to work with a qualified certified leap therapist (CLT), a licensed dietitian nutritionist (LDN), who can help interpret the results of the test and develop an appropriate treatment plan based on the individual's needs.In addition to eliminating trigger foods, it is important to focus on consuming foods that promote gut healing and reduce inflammation. These include foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as well as foods that are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, such as omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish like salmon, and turmeric, a spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
It is also important to support your gut health through lifestyle factors such as stress management, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep. By taking a holistic approach to gut healing and overall wellness, you can make positive changes that will support your long-term health and well-being.
In conclusion, food sensitivities and intolerances are important to know for gut healing, reducing inflammation, and improving overall wellness. By identifying and eliminating trigger foods, and focusing on consuming foods that promote gut healing and reduce inflammation, you can support your body's natural healing process and improve your overall health and well-being.
