EatRight.org

Short answer: there isn’t a single credible “food sensitivity” blood test that reliably diagnoses vague symptoms — many direct-to-consumer IgG panels are not useful. The best, non‑scam approach is to use tests that are clinically validated for specific problems, plus a structured elimination/rechallenge under a clinician or registered dietitian. Which tests are trustworthy (by problem), and specific services/brands: Suspected immediate food allergy (hives, anaphylaxis, throat/airway symptoms) See a board‑certified allergist for skin‑prick testing and/or serum specific IgE testing (ImmunoCAP by Thermo Fisher is the standard lab assay). Major labs (Quest Diagnostics, LabCorp) run these tests. Why: validated for diagnosing IgE‑mediated allergy. Suspected celiac disease Tissue transglutaminase IgA (tTG‑IgA) and total IgA (available at Quest, LabCorp, most health systems). Why: sensitive and specific for celiac disease; positive tests guide further evaluation with a GI specialist. Suspected lactose/fructose intolerance or SIBO / carbohydrate malabsorption Hydrogen (and methane) breath testing performed by GI clinics or specialty labs such as Genova Diagnostics. Why: breath tests are the accepted diagnostic tool for bacterial overgrowth and carbohydrate malabsorption. Ongoing IBS‑type symptoms or FODMAP intolerance Work with a registered dietitian (RDN) trained in the low‑FODMAP protocol (Monash University provides the evidence‑based low FODMAP app and resources). Why: a supervised elimination and structured reintroduction is the most reliable way to identify triggers for non‑allergic GI symptoms. General gut problems / microbiome workups Stool testing for infection/inflammation (stool culture, PCR panels like BioFire, fecal calprotectin) through your clinician or labs such as Quest/LabCorp; specialized labs (e.g., Genova Diagnostics) offer comprehensive stool panels but interpret results cautiously. Why: look for infections, inflammation, or other treatable causes before blaming “food sensitivities.” What to avoid IgG food panels (Everlywell, YorkTest, many direct‑to‑consumer IgG tests, and commercial “food sensitivity” IgG reports). Major allergy and immunology societies (AAAAI), gastroenterology groups, and clinics say IgG often reflects exposure and tolerance, not harmful sensitivity; using them to restrict diets risks unnecessary restrictions and nutritional harm. Practical recommendation Start with your primary care doctor or a gastroenterologist/allergist depending on symptoms. Get targeted, validated tests (tTG for celiac, specific IgE or skin testing for allergy, breath tests for carbohydrate malabsorption) and, for non‑allergic chronic symptoms, do a structured elimination/rechallenge with an RDN (look up a dietitian via EatRight.org or local health systems). For low‑FODMAP guidance, use Monash University’s resources. If you want, tell me your main symptoms (hives/urticaria vs gas/bloating vs diarrhea vs anaphylaxis) and I’ll say exactly which tests to ask your clinician for and which labs/providers to use.

Mentioned in position 10 of 10

Short answer: Yes — stopping a GLP‑1 (like semaglutide or tirzepatide) commonly leads to appetite returning and a substantial portion of the lost weight being regained unless you maintain other interventions or stay on medication. Why that happens GLP‑1 receptor agonists (examples: Wegovy or Ozempic — semaglutide; Zepbound or Mounjaro — tirzepatide) reduce appetite, slow gastric emptying, and change brain hunger signals. When the drug is stopped those effects reverse and appetite usually increases. There are also physiological adaptations to weight loss (lower resting metabolic rate, hormone changes such as increased ghrelin) that push weight back up unless countered. Clinical trials of semaglutide and tirzepatide showed big losses while people took the drugs but substantial regain after treatment stopped in many participants. What you can do instead of simply stopping Plan ahead with your clinician: don’t abruptly stop without a plan. They can help weigh risks/benefits and decide on tapering vs stopping. Continue long‑term therapy if appropriate: obesity is often a chronic condition and some people need long‑term medication to maintain weight loss. Add/step up behavioral supports: structured programs and regular follow‑up improve maintenance. WW (WeightWatchers) — evidence‑based, group support and chronic‑care model. Noom — app with cognitive‑behavioral coaching to support habit change. CDC Diabetes Prevention Program — structured lifestyle change program shown to prevent weight regain in many. Work with a registered dietitian (find local RDs at EatRight.org) for individualized meal plans. Consider other prescription options if GLP‑1s aren’t suitable: Qsymia (phentermine/topiramate), Contrave (bupropion/naltrexone), orlistat/Xenical (or OTC Alli) — discuss safety and suitability with your provider. For complex cases, see an obesity medicine specialist or multidisciplinary program: examples include the Mayo Clinic Weight Management Program or the Cleveland Clinic Bariatric & Metabolic Institute — they offer medical, nutrition, behavioral and sometimes surgical options. Preserve muscle and metabolism: prioritize protein intake and resistance training when you stop medication to reduce regain. Practical points Expect appetite to increase within weeks and weight to drift upward over months unless offset. If cost, side effects, or pregnancy are reasons to stop, talk with your clinician about transition strategies and alternative supports. If you’re thinking about stopping, schedule a visit to make a concrete plan (medication alternatives, increased follow‑up, diet/exercise plans, referrals). If you’d like, tell me which GLP‑1 you take (Wegovy/Ozempic/Mounjaro/Zepbound) and why you’re stopping (side effects, cost, pregnancy, etc.) and I can suggest a tailored taper/transition plan and specific local or telehealth resources.

Mentioned in position 4 of 10