Food Allergy Testing in Pittsburg
Food Intolerance
Food Intolerance (or sensitivity) is an abnormal response in the intestine to certain foods in genetically susceptible/ predisposed individuals. The result is irritation and inflammation every time the particular food is consumed. It is estimated that 80% of the immune system is located around the gastrointestinal system. With repeated exposure of intolerant foods the result can be a chronically debilitated immune system that can have its impact beyond the intestinal tract.
Intestinal Symptoms
- Diarrhea/Constipation
- Gastrointestinal hypermotility—accelerated passage of food which results in possible vomiting, spasms of the gut and diarrhea
- Reflux
- Malabsorption
- Leaky Gut Syndrome
Body Signs
Skin: Hives, dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis
Respiratory: Runny nose, asthma, nasal congestion, sinusitis
Head/Brain: Headache, migraine, sleeplessness, irritability, mental confusion
Other Conditions: Thyroid dysfunction, vitamin deficiencies, anemia, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue
Saliva Testing
- Gluten intolerance: Gluten is the protein portion of grains like wheat, barley, rye and oats. This intolerance is becoming more common and is very destructive on the intestinal lining resulting in a variety of signs and symptoms.
- Casein intolerance: Casein is the major protein found in cow’s milk.
- Egg intolerance: Ovalbumin is the protein found in the egg white.
- Soy Intolerance
GI Health Panel
Parasites are a common cause of intestinal dysfunction, especially those that are recurrent. Transmission occurs via contaminated foods and water or with infected people. Individuals like those who already suffer with gastrointestinal weaknesses, frequent antibiotic users, cancer patients, or frequent travelers are susceptible.
The GI Health Panel™ is a non-invasive screen of the gastrointestinal tract and its function. Stool and saliva samples are submitted by the patient after private and convenient home sample collection.
- Pathogen screening for bacteria, fungi, yeast and various parasites.
- Digestion-related screens for enzyme levels and immunochemical markers for intolerance to common offending foods.
- Intestinal function markers to evaluate irritation and inflammation; markers indicate overall status of gut immunity and integrity, such as occult blood.
Diagnostechs Laboratory is utilized for testing purposes. Please visit their website Diagnos-Techs for more details.
