Food Sensitivity Testing at Garibaldi Health Clinic

Have you ever noticed that certain foods seem to leave you feeling bloated, tired, foggy, or uncomfortable—but you can’t identify which ones? Food sensitivities can be difficult to recognize because symptoms often develop gradually and may not appear until hours or even days after eating.

At Garibaldi Health Clinic, Dr. Ashely Gordon, ND offers food sensitivity testing as part of a comprehensive assessment to help identify foods that may be contributing to ongoing symptoms. When interpreted alongside your medical history and clinical evaluation, testing can help guide personalized nutrition and treatment recommendations.

What Is Food Sensitivity Testing?

Food sensitivity testing measures your body’s immune response to specific foods by looking at IgG antibodies. Unlike food allergies, which typically cause immediate reactions, food sensitivities may be associated with delayed symptoms that can make identifying trigger foods more challenging.

It’s important to note that food sensitivity testing is just one piece of the puzzle. Results should always be interpreted by a qualified healthcare practitioner in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

When Might Food Sensitivity Testing Be Recommended?

Dr. Gordon, ND may recommend food sensitivity testing if you’re experiencing persistent symptoms such as:

• Digestive concerns, including bloating, gas, or irregular bowel habits
• Frequent headaches or migraines
• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue or low energy
• Skin concerns, including eczema, dermatitis, psoriasis, or hives
• Joint discomfort
• Seasonal allergies
• Ongoing inflammation
• Difficulty managing weight
• Mood or attention concerns

Many of these symptoms can have multiple causes. Food sensitivity testing may be considered as part of a broader investigation to help determine whether certain foods could be contributing to your symptoms.

Food Sensitivity vs. Food Allergy

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, food sensitivities and food allergies are different.

Food allergies involve an IgE-mediated immune response and typically occur within minutes of eating a trigger food. Reactions can range from mild symptoms to severe, life-threatening anaphylaxis and require prompt medical attention.

Food sensitivities are thought to involve a different immune response, often including IgG antibodies, and symptoms may develop several hours or even days after consuming a food. Because reactions are delayed, identifying potential trigger foods can be much more challenging.

How Can Testing Help?

Food sensitivity testing may help identify foods that warrant further evaluation or a supervised elimination trial. Combined with your symptoms, health history, and clinical assessment, the results can help develop an individualized plan designed to support your digestive health and overall well-being.

Take the Next Step

If you’ve been struggling with ongoing digestive issues, headaches, skin concerns, fatigue, or other unexplained symptoms, food sensitivity testing may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

To learn more or to book a consultation with Dr. Ashely Gordon ND, contact Garibaldi Health Clinic at 604-898-1999. We’re here to help you take the next step toward understanding your health and feeling your best.

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Ashely Gordon