Food is a key part of life, and knowing that you are eating food that is delicious and worthwhile is more important than most of us like to admit. However, there are some people who find that simply finding foods that are comfortable could be a struggle. This is often the case when it comes to food intolerances and other dietary issues that can create a lot of discomfort around meals and food in general. Learning how to get tested for food intolerance could be helpful if you are looking for your relationship with food to change for the better. Here’s what you should know.
How to get tested for food intolerance
First and foremost, you have your choice of two tests. The test that you choose will, of course, determine how the test is done.
The first test is a traditional food intolerance test that you can do from the comfort of your own home. It relies on either a blood sample or a hair sample and the kit can be completed at home and then mailed off to a lab for testing. The sample will be tested in the correct manner, and the results will be emailed to you shortly after the test itself is received at the lab. Along with the results, an elimination diet is suggested as long with some tips and tricks to help you make the most out of the results.
The second test option is done with the help of food journaling. This involves going on an elimination diet where you go to a predetermined baseline diet (this should be done with the help of a dietician or a nutritional therapist). You let your body detox, and then you slowly add back in “problem foods” and log any symptoms that you notice. This journal will be what will determine the problem foods for you in particular so that you can avoid them.
Which is better?
There’s not really any way to determine which test is better than the other. If you like the DIY approach, journalling may be your style. If you want the test results from a lab along with support on a proper elimination diet, a lab test is probably best. This is also faster as well in terms of start to end time. How to get tested for a food intolerance is always your choice, and you should rely on the option that is best for you, your needs and your lifestyle in particular. It is neat to know that you have options, though!
The truth is, life is full of frustrations and issues as it is. Why make it harder by avoiding food due to unclear digestive issues? Now that you know how to get tested for food intolerance, you can figure out what testing method works best for you and get your life back on track. It’s easier than you think, and the results will certainly be worth it, especially when you enjoy the first meal totally free of symptoms!
