Verbatim response from ChatGPT
Short answer: there is no single, reliable commercial "food sensitivity" blood test that proves you’re sensitive to foods. IgG food panels (the common “food sensitivity” tests sold direct-to-consumer) are not supported by good evidence and are actively discouraged by allergy specialists. The best route depends on what you mean by “sensitivity”:
If you suspect an immune (allergic, potentially serious) reaction
- See a board‑certified allergist. They will do skin‑prick testing and/or validated blood testing for specific IgE antibodies (ImmunoCAP/Phadia is the most commonly used, clinically validated assay offered through major labs such as LabCorp or Quest).
- The gold standard for diagnosis of a true food allergy is a medically supervised oral food challenge in clinic.
If you suspect celiac disease
- Get celiac serology (tissue transglutaminase IgA, often with total IgA) through a reputable lab (LabCorp, Quest). If positive, follow up with GI referral.
If you suspect lactose/fructose intolerance or SIBO
- Breath testing (hydrogen/methane) done in a gastroenterology clinic is the appropriate test. Many clinics use QuinTron analyzers; ask your GI clinic which system they use and that they follow standard preparation/interpretation protocols.
If you have chronic GI symptoms without clear allergy
- An elimination diet or structured low‑FODMAP trial supervised by a registered dietitian (RDN) who specializes in GI issues is the most evidence‑based approach. Monash University provides the research-backed low‑FODMAP program and app used by many clinicians.
Tests to avoid as definitive proof
- IgG "food sensitivity" panels sold directly to consumers (examples you might see: Everlywell, Vibrant, YorkTest, Cyrex, etc.) are not reliable indicators of food intolerance and can lead to unnecessary, restrictive diets. Major allergy societies advise against using IgG testing to diagnose food sensitivities.
Practical next steps
- If you have immediate-type reactions (hives, throat tightness, wheeze, anaphylaxis) see an allergist urgently.
- If symptoms are mainly GI (bloating, pain, diarrhea) start with: (a) celiac testing if not already done, (b) hydrogen breath testing if lactose/fructose/SIBO is suspected, and (c) a supervised elimination/low‑FODMAP protocol with an RDN.
- Use established clinical labs (LabCorp, Quest) and board‑certified specialists; avoid consumer IgG panels marketed as definitive.
If you want, tell me your main symptoms and whether you get immediate allergic-type reactions; I can suggest the single most appropriate next test or the right specialist to see.