If you were to ask any health professionals view on intolerance testing their opinion on IgG antibody food intolerance testing, such as Test Your Intolerance IgG intolerance test, you’d find the responses as divided as if you’d asked whether they love or hate that thick, dark, salty yeast extract spread we all know that starts with an ‘M’ (though of course, other yeast extracts are also available).
In true yeast-extract fashion, let’s use this blog to quickly spread out both sides of this divided debate for you to digest.
Health Professionals View on Intolerance Testing
Many health professionals view on intolerance testing, including myself, is that it plays an invaluable role in client care. I use it on a weekly basis with numerous clients, but only after carefully ruling out other possible causes of their symptoms. When necessary, I run additional tests alongside food intolerance testing, and also refer them to their GP for additional blood or stool tests to rule out causes of any more serious “red flag” symptoms. Used in the right context, and interpreted correctly, intolerance testing becomes a powerful tool for digging deeper into unexplained symptoms.
Among my colleagues, views differ greatly – some never use these tests, while others consider them an absolute must-have. Those who don’t use them often fall into two categories: some lack in-depth knowledge of how these tests work and remain sceptical of them, while others prefer stool testing as their primary method for identifying gut health issues which may be underlying various symptoms, not just digestive ones.
Why does food intolerance testing leave a bitter taste for some?
For those of us in the love camp, we know that food intolerance testing offers unique insights that can significantly enhance client outcomes. Not only do these tests reveal foods that may be underlying symptoms without the need for a trial-and-error elimination diet, but a test result showing multiple results may also be associated with intestinal hyperpermeability (aka leaky gut) which is something that is harder to detect through other testing methods.
The main concern outside of the love camp stems from the lack of reliable clinical studies on the relevance of finding IgG antibodies in blood samples. Despite evidence of thousands of real-life success stories, the lack of consistent clinical studies to prove their relevance means they remain outside of mainstream medical practice. This can make it difficult to justify their use privately unless the health professionals has had specific training to understand and explore the benefits these tests can offer in particular cases.
The lack of use in mainstream medical practice also reduces confidence around the validity and reliability of tests and reinforces the concern that these tests are not being used because their results are not accurate. However, with suitable training around when to use the tests and how to interpret the results, a health professionals health professionals view on intolerance testing will only be increased as the results will be a useful addition to their clients data when exploring the underlying causes of their health issues.
Bridging the Gap: A Balanced Spread
In the world of health and wellness, the debate around food intolerance testing is as polarised as yeast-extract opinions. While some health professionals view on intolerance testing remain sceptical, others embrace these tests as valuable tools for understanding underlying causes of their client’s symptoms. Ultimately, the key lies in finding a balanced approach that suits individual needs.
Food intolerance testing can provide insights that complement other diagnostic methods, providing more clues in the understanding of complex health issues. Combining these tests with other assessments such as stool and/or SIBO tests, and basic dietary interventions, we can put together a plan that is uniquely tailored to each and every client.
Just as everyone has their unique way of enjoying yeast extract – whether slathered thickly onto toast, or thinly spread for a hint of taste – health professionals can find their own perfect “spread” in the approach to intolerance testing. By remaining open to diverse perspectives and maintaining a willingness to explore new methods, we can ensure our clients receive comprehensive, informed care that truly meets their needs. coudl an intolerance test be the option for you? Learn more about our tests here.