October 3, 2024

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5 best at-home food sensitivity tests 2024, expert reviewed

16 min read
5 best at-home food sensitivity tests 2024, expert reviewed

Food sensitivities can cause more than just digestive problems. They can manifest as fatigue, skin irritations, mood changes, and inflammation. These symptoms can lead to larger health issues like unexplained itching, migraines, and joint pain. (

1

) At-home food sensitivity tests offer an easy and convenient way to check for any food or substance intolerances; though it’s important to keep in mind that food sensitivity tests do not test for food allergies or celiac disease.

If you’re wanting to take an at-home celiac test, check out our list of

best at-home celiac tests

for more information on which one to choose.

“Food sensitivities are important to uncover as they can majorly impact our daily lives and overall well-being,” adds. Dr. Malhotra.

“By understanding how we react to certain foods and making smarter dietary choices, we can empower ourselves to improve our health and, more importantly, enjoy a better quality of life.”

Simran Malhotra, MD., DipABLM, CHWC, Fortune Recommends Medical Advisor

Through our thorough evaluation, we’ve narrowed down the list to the five most reliable and effective at-home food sensitivity tests currently on the market. Whether you’re trying to

hit your macros

and have encountered a suspected food sensitivity or simply want to understand your body’s reactions to particular foods, our team of experts will walk you through each test in detail.

Editor’s choice

myLAB Food Sensitivity Test

exceeds the accuracy of results, attributed to the need for a blood sample. With a blood sample, the test effectively measures IgG antibodies that may not be present in alternate sample options such as saliva or hair. Continue reading to find a detailed analysis that will help you determine the best food sensitivity test for your needs and budget.


Our picks for the best at-home food sensitivity test

MyLABBox food sensitivity test.

Most accurate at-home food sensitivity test

MyLABBox food sensitivity test.

myLAB Box offers reliability and efficiency in one easy-to-use at-home test.

Key product features



Icon Quality


Lab-certified


CLIA and CAP

Icon Platforms


Antibodies


IgG

Icon Warranty


Trusted


HIPAA-compliant

What you should know




The Food Sensitivity Test offered by myLAB Box is an easy-to-use, convenient option for those who want insights into their own food sensitivities.


  • This test measures IgG antibodies related to 96 common foods in your blood, helping you determine which foods may be causing unwanted symptoms.

  • The myLAB Box Food Sensitivity Test costs $149, including the testing kit and laboratory analysis.

  • The myLAB Box Food Sensitivity Test is best suited for individuals who suspect they may have food sensitivities and want to gain valuable insights into the effects of their diet.

Pros



Free shipping on orders over $150



Claims to be as accurate as tests carried out by a clinic or doctor’s office

Cons



Temporarily unavailable in the state of New York



Possible blood contamination

Why we like myLAB Box Food Sensitivity Test as most accurate

We consider myLAB Box the most accurate test available because of its high-quality control standards. The company’s website states, “Your test results meet nationwide standards and are as accurate as tests done in a clinic or a doctor’s office.”

To ensure this level of accuracy, myLABBOX prides itself on working closely with accredited and trustworthy laboratories to meet all nationwide standards in the U.S. This means that all of the laboratory partners that myLABBOX uses are CLIA- and CAP-certified.

The Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA) was established by Congress in 1989 to set quality standards for laboratory testing. It ensures that laboratories meet stringent requirements to ensure test results’ accuracy, reliability, and timeliness. (

2

) In addition, the College of American Pathologists (CAP) is an organization that provides accreditation services for laboratories. (

3

)

Additionally, as part of its commitment to reliability, myLAB Box ensures the confidentiality of your personal health information. The company protects your privacy by complying with all HIPAA guidelines, the national standard that governs the privacy of personal health information, to enhance the trustworthiness of its services.

The accuracy of results in this particular test is attributed to the need for a blood sample. Using a blood sample, the test can effectively measure IgG antibodies that may not be present in alternate sample options such as saliva or hair.

“Antibodies are blood proteins produced by specific cells to fight alien substances entering the body such as bacteria, viruses, foreign substances, and certain foods. IgG antibodies are the most common type of antibodies, and they are produced after your body has been exposed to a certain alien substance. If that alien substance, such as a certain food, is reintroduced to the body (through ingestion), the IgG antibodies will ‘remember’ it, leading to an immune response that causes the symptoms described above,” explains Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar, a board-certified emergency medicine physician and Fortune Recommends advisor.

The reason for this discrepancy lies in blood composition compared to other bodily fluids or tissues. Blood contains various components, including antibodies, that provide valuable information about your body’s response to particular antigens. (

4

)

What customers are saying

The myLAB Box Food Sensitivity Test has a 4.6-star rating on Amazon. Verified Amazon purchaser James Hartman loved this test’s specificity and was happy to confirm what he had already suspected.





I was thrilled with this test’s simplicity! I got my results back just two days after the lab received it! I chose to take this test due to some recent food issues, and I was eager to see if there were things I might need to avoid. Sure enough, the test confirmed what I suspected. I am going to discuss it further with my doctor, but all in all, this has been a fantastic starting point!”


James Hartman, verified Amazon customer

Most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, and customers were happy with the personalized results they received. However, some, like verified Amazon customer “KTS”, found the blood sample collection process challenging.

“The kit includes two automatic lancets that you must use to pierce your fingertip. I followed the directions on using one on my left middle finger. Despite my best efforts to push blood to my fingertip, I could not get the blood droplet to fall off my finger onto the card.”

Specs


Price
$149

Sample collection
Blood

Number of foods tested
96

Results time
2-5 days

Shipping
Free on orders >$150

A Check My Body Health food sensitivity test.

Most expansive at-home test food sensitivity test

A Check My Body Health food sensitivity test.

A reliable at-home food sensitivity test kit that looks at 970 key elements known to cause digestive and inflammatory problems.

Key product features



Icon Upper Body V2


Noninvasive


Hair sample

Icon Platforms


Results


Digital report

Icon Quality


Trustworthy


Expert advice

What you should know




The Check My Body Health Complete Food Sensitivity Test measures a wide range of food and drink items known to cause symptoms related to a sensitivity response. This range of tested items provides you and your doctor with information that may help you eliminate discomfort and relieve food sensitivity symptoms.


  • This test offers remarkable coverage. It includes over 400 food and drink items, 156 environmental sensitivities, over 50 heavy metals, additives, and more. This means you can get a comprehensive overview of how your body reacts to a wide range of elements and how severely.

  • When you consider the number of potential irritants tested, the Check My Body Health Food Sensitivity Test offers true value for the money, costing only $89.

  • This at-home food sensitivity test is a great option for anyone uncomfortable or unable to perform a finger prick to obtain a blood sample.

Pros



Results are conveniently and securely emailed to you



Get a discount per volume when you buy more than one



Noninvasive sample collection



You can fast-track your results to get them quicker



More affordable than other tests, at only $89

Cons



No direct consultation with a medical professional



Results not reviewed by a certified physician

Why we like Check My Body Health Food Sensitivity Test as most expansive

The Check My Body Health Complete Food Sensitivity Test offers a comprehensive solution for those who want to understand better how their body reacts to various triggers—making it our choice for the most expansive at-home food sensitivity test. A total of 970 items are tested across eight broad categories.

If you are uncomfortable with needles, the Check My Body Health kit uses a simple hair sample instead of a blood sample. Our product testers noted this is a significant advantage for those who do not like needles.

Since sensitivities can change over time, purchasing multiple tests at discounted rates can benefit those who want to track their test results and adjust their diet. (

5

) Studies have shown that certain probiotics can modulate the immune system and are known to change the microbiome composition in the gut. (

6

)

If you plan on introducing supplements like

probiotic supplements

into your diet and want to understand how or if your sensitivities have changed since the last test you took, it may be a good idea to order a pack of two or three so that you can take the test when it is most convenient for you.

One potential drawback to consider is the lack of a clinical consultation available to help guide treatment recommendations and interpret results. However, even though the test does not include a direct consultation with a medical professional, the comprehensive nature of the results can be a solid basis for further discussions with a physician.

“A second drawback of this test is that it is not a blood sample, so it does not test IgG antibodies. This negatively affects the accuracy of the results,” says Dr. Dhargalkar.

Since our bodies are always looking for invaders, testing for additional toxicants can provide a more thorough assessment of what is triggering your symptoms and give you a glimpse into your surroundings and how they contribute to your overall health.

What customers are saying

The Complete Food Sensitivity Test has over 800 reviews from happy customers on Amazon, with an average of 4 stars. Many noted the test’s expansive list of items it tests for and liked how it was able to give precise feedback on such a wide range of possible triggers.

Amanda Smith, a verified Amazon reviewer, emphasized this point by saying, “My husband and I both did these tests. The information will help us know what to eliminate. Some items listed as highly reactive are items that bother me. Very accurate!”

Not all reviews are positive. Amazon reviewer Loree A. comments, “(I) wish the results were more accurate to show allergies, not sensitivities only.”

Specs


Price
$89

Sample collection
Hair

Number of foods tested
970

Results time
3-5 days

Shipping
Free

Covered by insurance
No

An EverlyWell food sensitivity test.

Best at-home food sensitivity test for personalized data

An EverlyWell food sensitivity test.

An affordable all-in-one test kit that is easy to use, with reliable and fast results.

Key product features



Icon Quality


Accuracy


>95%

Icon Warranty


Comprehensive


96 foods tested

Icon Options


Results


Personalized

Icon Platforms


Antibodies


IgG

What you should know




Everlywell’s Food Sensitivity Test is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable food sensitivity test they can do in the comfort of their own homes.


  • You can perform the test at home with just a few drops of blood, saving time and money by not traveling to a clinic or laboratory.

  • Everlywell offers a monthly membership that includes an at-home lab test from a selection at no additional cost, saving you money in the long run.

  • Anyone curious about their food sensitivities may find this test useful, as it offers a wide selection of foods known to cause reactions in people.

Pros



Results reviewed by board-certified physicians



Easy-to-understand results



User-friendly sample collection

Cons



Contamination risk from blood

Why we like Everlywell as best for personalized data

Everlywell distinguishes itself as the best at-home food sensitivity test for personalized data thanks to its well-rounded selection of items measured, attention to detail, and affordability. This kit includes everything you need to get personalized and actionable information about your unwanted symptoms.

Our team of product testers was impressed with how intuitive it was to use and how easy the instructions were to understand. They also found the collection sample process clear, concise, and easy to follow.

Your results are displayed by a simple rating scale of normal, mild, moderate, or high (0-3). Based on the specific foods measured, the number represents the severity of the body’s IgG antibody response, making it easy to

track your nutrition

and guide your eating habits.

The process was streamlined and user-friendly, from collecting the sample through a simple finger prick to packaging and shipping the test back. Our testers appreciated the attention to detail in the instructions, which ensured they could complete the test accurately and efficiently.

The Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test is not the cheapest option we tested, but it measures the body’s reaction to a wide range of common foods that cause unwanted symptoms. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who wishes to learn about their body’s reactions to various common foods.

We also appreciated Everlywell’s attention to detail in providing personalized results, since everyone responds to specific foods differently. Everlywell provides personalized next-step recommendations based on your specific test results. This customized approach can save you time and frustration when searching for solutions.

What customers are saying

Everylywell’s Food Sensitivity Test is awarded Amazon’s Choice for its high rating and reasonable price tag. Over 4,700 reviews on Amazon highlight how easy it is to use and how helpful it may be in resolving underlying health issues.

Nearly 75% of the overall reviews on Amazon are four stars or above. Verified reviewer Jennifer was happy with the results Everlywell provided her.

Some reviewers noted that the test was unavailable in their country. Everlywell is an American company and does not ship tests internationally.

Amazon reviewer “cwhelan” noted, “I live in Canada, and when I tried to set it up, I found out that the company doesn’t support Canadian results.” This can be frustrating for those outside the U.S. who want access to this at-home testing option.

Specs


Price
$199

Sample collection
Blood

Number of foods tested
96

Results time
A few days

Shipping
Free

Covered by insurance
No

A 5Strands food sensitivity test.

Best budget at-home test food sensitivity test

A 5Strands food sensitivity test.

A well-rounded test at a great price to help you determine numerous potential food intolerances.

Key product features



Icon Insurance Accepted


Hassle-free


Easy directions

Icon Upper Body V2


Noninvasive


Hair sample

Icon Platforms


Comprehensive


640+ tested

What you should know




The 5Strands Food Intolerance Test tests for over 640 items known to cause unwanted symptoms. This test offers a comprehensive overview to help you better understand your body’s response to many of your dietary triggers.


  • Test results can help guide personalized recommendations for an elimination diet.

  • This specific food sensitivity test offers the best value for your buck, considering the number of triggers it tests and its price of $88.

  • 5Strand’s Food Intolerance Test is the best choice for those who want to test their sensitivity to a wide range of foods from the comfort of home, but have a limited budget.

Pros



Comprehensive list of items tested across 14 categories



Money-back guarantee for 30 days



Detailed, easy-to-understand, color-coded results



Pain-free sample collection



Most affordable option at $88

Cons



Results can take up to 10 days after receiving the sample



Limited peer-reviewed research



Lack of in-person support regarding results interpretation

Why we like 5Strands Food Intolerance Test as best budget

5Strands has earned our pick for the best budget at-home food sensitivity test because of its impressive coverage of common triggers and its affordable price of $88—the cheapest test on our list and half the cost of many other similar options. We like this test because it covers 644 ingredients across 14 broad categories, helping you pinpoint the potential cause of your symptoms.

The test includes insight into 29 proteins, 57 fruits, 106 vegetables, 31 beverages, and 23 grains. This insight into your specific food triggers can make adjusting and modifying your diet easier.

Gluten can cause digestive problems in individuals who have a sensitivity to it. (

7

) As a budget-friendly choice, the 5Strands Food Intolerance Test includes gluten in its list of ingredients that it tests for.

Despite it being our pick for the best budget at-home food sensitivity test, it doesn’t sacrifice coverage. By incorporating gluten sensitivity testing, 5Strands provides added information at no additional charge. This test is a great option for those who do not want to provide a blood sample.

5Strands uses bio-resonance technology on hair to determine food intolerance. This technology works by scanning the hair sample and measuring energy frequency wavelengths off this sample.

“It is important to note that no verified scientific studies prove the reliability or accuracy of this type of testing. No evidence proves this is an effective method in determining food intolerances,” says Dr. Dhargalkar.

5Strands also stands behind its tests and offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. You can return the test if you find a better alternative within the time frame. This way, you can try the 5Strands test without fully committing to the upfront cost. With your budget in mind, this offers the flexibility to return the test if you find a more affordable or better option.

What customers are saying

Amazon customers who purchased the 5Strands Food Intolerance Test have noted the transformative effect of this test’s results.





Amazing test. Just put my hair in the box as instructed on their video. A week later, I had test results on their app, which I always access. Very easy to read and understand, and because of this information, I FEEL BETTER. That is the important thing. I needed to see what food intolerances were creating havoc in my gut. I was surprised to see how much stuff wasn’t beneficial regarding how my gut felt. Because I eat differently, it is a joy not to always be in pain.”



“FunWithAmazon”, verified Amazon customer

However, not everyone has such great things to say about it. Kristana, another verified Amazon purchaser, remarked, “The kit was delivered quickly, and test results were also completed promptly. In my opinion, the downfall of this test kit is that it’s a bit more focused on chemicals that could be present in food and drinks and can be found in some skincare. Which isn’t explained thoroughly enough in the results themselves.”

Specs


Price
$88

Sample collection
Hair

Number of foods tested
640+

Results time
5 days

Shipping
Free with purchase of two or more

A box of YorkTest food sensitivity test.

Best at-home food sensitivity test for IBS

A box of YorkTest food sensitivity test.

This test offers a convenient at-home food sensitivity test kit that may help you gain control over your gastrointestinal symptoms.

Key product features



Icon Quality


Antibodies


IgG

Icon Platforms


Comprehensive


200+ items

Icon Warranty


Pay with HSA/FSA:


Yes

What you should know




The YorkTest Premium Food Sensitivity Test comprehensively covers 200 common food triggers, including gluten. This test specializes in IBS symptom management by measuring your body’s IgG immune reaction to each item tested.


  • You can make appropriate adjustments to prevent future IBS symptoms by considering the data measured in this test.

  • This test comes in at $189 and may be out of reach for some individuals.

  • Those who have IBS, suspect that they do, or want answers to unresolved digestive symptoms may benefit from the individualized information this test provides.

Pros



Comprehensive, testing of over 200 ingredients



Easy-to-follow sample collection instructions

Cons



Possible blood contamination



A finger prick is required



On the more expensive side

Why we like YorkTest Premium Food Sensitivity Test as best for IBS

The YorkTest Premium Food Sensitivity Test is our top choice for anyone with IBS due to its ability to pinpoint specific food triggers that can cause symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, or discomfort.

IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, is a common digestive disorder that affects around 10% of the global population. Its symptoms vary in severity. (

8

) YorkTest claims that 84% of its 3,000 participants saw improvement in their IBS symptoms after taking the test.

The YorkTest Premium Food Sensitivity Test is comprehensive in its trigger testing. With over 200 ingredients tested, this test allows you to examine a wide range of specific triggers that may be affecting your health.

Our product testers found the YorkTest Premium Food Sensitivity Test stands out for its user-friendly interface. After completing the straightforward at-home testing process, your results will be conveniently accessible through the company’s secure online portal.

The results are presented in a color-coded system, making it easy to understand and determine your triggers. This clear and intuitive format can help you more easily address your food sensitivities and improve your overall well-being.

Our product testers noted that YorkTest offers nutrition counseling and can set you up with a Nutritional Counseling Consultation. This is a great option for anyone with IBS who wants to gain control over their symptoms. One-on-one counseling is offered to help you align your diet with your body’s needs and create a customized diet plan that fits your lifestyle.

What customers are saying

The reviews for YorkTest’s Premium Food Sensitivity Test are mixed. Many have found relief from ongoing digestive issues, while others have not been so lucky.

Some customers rave about the results, like verified Amazon customer Calla.





I have used YorkTest many times and can honestly say that their customer service is amazing! I first tested my intolerances with the Premium Food Intolerance Test due to recurring digestive issues affecting my daily life. When I received my results, I eliminated my intolerances and have felt better ever since. I now test every year to ensure I keep fit and healthy.”


Calla, verified Amazon customer

On the other hand, others have found the test to be less accurate than they had hoped. A one-star review from another verified purchaser on Amazon with username “B” stated, “I’ve done many tests for health and food sensitivity. The results were not very accurate. Fast shipping, but I would not buy again.”

Specs


Price
$189

Sample collection
Blood

Number of foods tested
200+

Results time
<1 week

Shipping
Free

How we evaluate at-home food sensitivity tests

We know how frustrating it can be to suffer from unwanted symptoms after eating your favorite meals. That’s why we’ve provided unbiased and reliable information, which you can find on our

full at-home testing methodology page

. Here’s how we ranked each of these at-home food sensitivity test kits.

Testing criteria

Accuracy and reliability—40%

Accurate test results are the most important element of at-home testing kits, as they form the basis for the user’s health decisions. Whether you’re exploring your genetic background, tracking fertility cycles, or identifying food sensitivities, the integrity of the data provided by these tests is crucial. Reliable results help users confidently make informed decisions for personal health management or discussions with their healthcare provider.

Here’s what we look for:


  • Measurement precision

  • Consistency

  • Environmental influence

  • Sample integrity

  • Lab standards

Ease of use and accessibility—30%

The ease of use and accessibility of at-home testing kits determine how effectively individuals can utilize these products. A testing kit may offer the most advanced technology and accurate results, but its benefits are significantly diminished if it is not user-friendly. Ensuring that these kits are accessible and easy to use empowers a broad range of users, including those who may not have prior experience with medical testing or technology. This enhances the likelihood of correct usage, accurate sample collection, and reliable results, ultimately improving the overall experience and satisfaction. We evaluate:


  • Instruction clarity

  • Sample collection process

  • Online platform usability

  • Support resources

  • Accessibility features

Value—20%

Evaluating the value of at-home testing kits is critical, encompassing the initial purchase price, long-term financial implications, and overall cost-effectiveness. A high-value kit delivers reliable results without imposing excessive costs over time, so users can receive meaningful health benefits for their investment.

We evaluate:


  • Cost of the kit

  • Insurance coverage

  • Long-term cost analysis

  • Warranty

Customer experience—10%

A positive customer experience helps users feel supported, informed, and satisfied at every stage of their interaction with the kit. This category considers multiple touchpoints, including customer service, delivery and packaging, user feedback, and return policies. By prioritizing customer experience, we aim to recommend products that not only meet technical and performance standards but also provide a seamless and supportive user experience.

Our factors in this rating include:


  • Customer service

  • Delivery and packaging

  • User feedback and reviews

  • Return policy

Everyone wants a comfortable mattress that helps them sleep well and doesn’t cause additional discomfort or aches and pains.  This often means using materials that form to your body and reduce friction points.  But when getting in/out of bed, getting ready, or even working, having a mattress with edges that give too much, or are too soft, can be a real problem.  So we’re testing mattress edges for the greatest support.

What is food sensitivity?

A food sensitivity is an unwanted consequence of the food you consume. Food intolerances are similar to food allergies, except they do not involve an immune response. (

9

)

Food sensitivities can cause significant distress and interference with daily life. Symptoms can be mild or severe, including digestive issues, skin problems, breathing issues, and excessive fatigue. They can trigger conditions like headaches and inflammation, leading to migraines and joint pain. (

10

)

Identifying the specific foods that trigger these unwanted responses is crucial in making necessary changes to your diet. One effective approach to this is the elimination diet. This dietary approach consists of two phases: the elimination phase and the reintroduction phase. (

11

)

During the elimination phase, foods that are known to be common triggers are completely removed from the diet. This clean slate allows individuals to identify any improvements in their symptoms. Once the elimination phase is complete and symptoms have subsided, foods are reintroduced one at a time.

Using a systematic and gradual approach, the elimination diet may help you feel better and understand your body’s unique reaction to different foods and food groups, enabling you to make more informed dietary decisions.

What is an at-home food sensitivity test?

Everyone’s body responds to food sensitivities differently, and at-home food sensitivity tests allow you to obtain lab-quality testing in the comfort of your home. Their purpose is to allow you to conveniently identify any specific sensitivities and intolerances to certain foods or substances. (

12

)

Food sensitivity tests are typically used to guide an elimination diet. The results can help you and healthcare providers create a plan to avoid certain triggers and improve gut health.

Who should use an at-home food sensitivity test?

Anyone interested in improving their gut health or who suspects that they have food sensitivities can use an at-home food sensitivity test to get personalized results. Unexplained or ongoing digestive issues may be caused by certain foods you eat.

If you want to understand how your body’s immune system reacts to specific foods, you should take an at-home food sensitivity test to identify the specific foods and the severity of the reaction.

Who should not use an at-home food sensitivity test?

Even though at-home food sensitivity tests can offer valuable insights, certain individuals should exercise caution or refrain from using them altogether. Individuals with eating disorders may find the elimination diet associated with food sensitivity testing extremely restrictive.

Individuals with known or suspected allergies should not use at-home food sensitivity tests to determine their sensitivities to specific foods. At-home food sensitivity tests are not intended to diagnose allergies, and consuming foods that one is allergic to can lead to severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening.

Therefore, individuals with a history of eating disorders or known food allergies should work closely with their healthcare provider to address potential concerns and come up with an appropriate treatment plan. (

13

)

How to choose the best at-home food sensitivity test for you

A few key factors must be considered when choosing the best food sensitivity test at home: cost, coverage, and convenience. However, this can be overwhelming with the many available options.

While the cost of an at-home food sensitivity test is certainly an important consideration, it’s crucial to remember that it shouldn’t be the sole factor in your decision-making process. When selecting a test, knowing which specific ingredients are being tested for sensitivity is important.

The more ingredients a test covers, the more comprehensive and thorough the analysis of potential sensitivities will be. This can give you a more accurate and detailed understanding of how your diet may impact your health.

The type of sample used for testing in an at-home food sensitivity test can directly impact convenience. For some, a finger prick to collect a blood sample does not affect them. For others, they may find a finger prick to be uncomfortable or anxiety-inducing.

FAQs


What food sensitivity test is most accurate?



Blood tests are considered more accurate for detecting food sensitivities than hair tests. This is because blood tests measure the antibodies the immune system produces in response to certain foods. These antibodies, such as IgG, indicate an immune response and help identify food sensitivities. For this reason, tests that require a blood sample are more accurate. (


4


)


How can I test for food intolerance at home?



In order to test for a food intolerance at home, it’s best to purchase an at-home food sensitivity test, like the ones recommended here. Many options are available for at-home food sensitivity testing. Most tests use a few drops of blood or strands of hair, but others may determine results based on saliva sampling.


Is there a difference between a food sensitivity test and a food allergy test?



Yes. Unlike food sensitivities, a food allergy is an immune-mediated response to specific proteins in certain foods. If a person eats the food they are allergic to, their immune system recognizes the protein as a threat and produces an allergic reaction.

Food allergy tests

look at IgE antibodies, while food sensitivities typically measure your IgG antibodies. (


14


)


Are at-home food sensitivity tests reliable?



While medical evidence is lacking to support the use of at-home food sensitivity tests to diagnose food sensitivities, many have found them helpful in guiding dietary choices to avoid problematic foods. (


15


)


Will insurance cover at-home food sensitivity tests?



Typically, at-home food sensitivity tests are not covered by insurance. In many cases, food sensitivity tests performed in a doctor’s office are not covered by insurance either. However, it’s always worth checking with your insurance provider to see if they will cover the cost.

Our experts


Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar

Dr. Aneesha Dhargalkar is a board-certified emergency medicine physician currently practicing in West Chester, PA. She graduated cum laude from John Hopkins University in 2002 and from Jefferson Medical College in 2006. After this, Dr. Dhargalkar attended and completed a three-year residency program in emergency medicine at Temple University Health System. Dr. Dhargalkar is the director of her hospital’s wellness provider program and sits on the executive board of both the Chester County Suicide Prevention Task Force and the Unionville Chadds Ford School District Education Foundation.


Simran Malhotra MD., DipABLM, CHWC

Dr. Simran Malhotra is a triple board-certified physician in internal medicine, hospice and palliative care, and lifestyle medicine, and a certified health and wellness coach. She is currently practicing part-time as an inpatient palliative care physician at MedStar Health. She completed the T.Colin Campbell Plant-based nutrition certification in 2019, the CHEF culinary coaching certification in 2020, and the WellCoaches health and wellness coaching certification in 2022.


Heather Morsellino

Heather Morsellino is a freelance writer and fact-checker with over four years of experience in healthcare. She has worked as a pharmacy technician, emergency room medical scribe, and anesthesia technician in the operating room and will finish her ADN within the following year.

Brittney Bertagna, RN, BSN

Brittney Bertagna, RN, BSN

Fortune Recommends Longevity Writer

About Author

Brittney Bertagna is a registered nurse passionate about educating online audiences about health-related topics. As a healthcare professional, she brings a unique perspective to her work, creating credible content that is engaging and accessible to readers. As a freelance health editor and writer, Brittney ensures the dissemination of evidence-based, patient-centered content. Brittney has worked with numerous notable healthcare brands, reporting on topics such as healthcare entrepreneurship, reproductive health, and nutrition.







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      What is a food intolerance?



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      IBS Facts and Statistics – About IBS



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