Just How Common Are Food Sensitivities?

Have you ever wondered if you have a food sensitivity? Perhaps you’ve become used to that upset stomach? Maybe you have a skin rash that won’t go away? Does brain fog or chronic fatigue interrupt your life? If you’ve said yes to any of these, I’ve got your back.   

Food sensitivities can present with many symptoms. Often, patients don’t have the classic symptoms such as nausea or loose stool after eating a particular food. Rather, gradual chronic inflammation and leaky gut leads to non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, abdominal bloating, joint pains, and skin rashes. To make matters worse, the symptoms can present days after the exposure, deflating the diagnostic accuracy of dietary logs and symptom trackers.

Food sensitivities are a commonly missed diagnosis when evaluating these non-specific symptoms. It’s estimated that approximately 20% of people in industrialized countries have food sensitivities (1). Perhaps you’ve told your doctor about your symptoms, even asked to be tested for food sensitivities. Good-intentioned clinicians might offer to check a celiac panel, but they often have limited time, know-how, or interest to go any further. 

When I was part of a big hospital system and a patient would come to me with these concerns, I too had limited time to get to the heart of the issue. My day was micromanaged into billable chief complaints. Ironically, even as an osteopathic physician and registered dietitian, I had little to no training in diagnosing food sensitivities. I knew this needed to change.

The beauty of direct primary care is that I now work for my patients rather than insurance. Your precious dollars secure my time and attention when you step into my exam room, whether as a one-off consult or a member. I’m well-equipped and eager to help you explore your symptoms, order the appropriate tests, and help you modify your diet to achieve optimal health.

How are food sensitivity tests performed? Commonly, we take a blood draw or finger prick. At Integrate Internal Medicine, we work closely with Vibrant Wellness Laboratory to perform accurate testing of over 200 foods. We can even test for sensitivities to food additives, preservatives, and molds. 

If you have some of these symptoms and are eager to figure it out, contact Dr. Kate. We’ll set you up with the appropriate tests and develop a personalized plan to optimize your health. I’m eager to help you live your best life!

The Empowered Patient

Dr. Kate

Bonus Tip: Dairy and gluten are the most common food sensitivities.

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