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Have you ever had stomach pain after eating certain foods? Maybe you have a particular medical condition that requires you to avoid consuming certain foods.
Whatever the case, you may need to do a regular or a one-time food sensitivity test to determine which foods are making you sick so that you can eliminate those foods from your diet.
In this article, we will explore one way you can get affordable at-home food sensitivity test kits, their accuracy, what you should look for, and much more, a few options to consider, and much more.
Can I Do an At-home Food Sensitivity Test?
Yes, you can certainly do an at-home food sensitivity test to efficiently, safely, and conveniently determine if and what types of food sensitivities or food intolerance you have.
Food sensitivity is a condition that affects your digestive system and can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. These conditions are difficult to diagnose but are rarely life-threatening.
With so many people suffering from a variety of symptoms, there is now a safe and effective at-home food sensitivity test that can help determine whether you’re sensitive to a particular food.
Food allergy is quite common, and the simplest of ingredients can become life-threatening. As such, it is essential to understand what your trigger foods are.
At-home food sensitivities tests can rule out or pinpoint foods that you are actually allergic to. Millions of people suffer from a variety of symptoms caused by food allergies and intolerances, which can make living a healthy lifestyle nearly impossible.
However, the truth is that you may not be aware of the source of your symptoms. Food sensitivity can be difficult to diagnose, and it may even be undiagnosed.
Symptoms of food intolerance include:
-
- Bloatin
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
- Migraines
- Itchy eyes
Also, your doctor may request regular home food sensitivity tests to monitor for progress or decline in your condition. This is quite common with celiac disease, for example. People with this condition are unable to tolerate gluten which therefore causes the immune system to attack your body’s own tissues.
Food allergy kits for home use are not typically quite easy to use since each brand provides its users with a step-by-step guide on how to properly take and send samples for accurate results.
There are a number of manufacturers to choose from, and we have prepared a list of the best at-home food allergy tests for you. The results of the test can be used to find a food-allergy treatment plan. These kits are affordable, convenient, and easy to use.
Although at-home food sensitivity tests aren’t a substitute for a medical evaluation, they can be very helpful in the diagnosis of food intolerance and help you navigate life with your sensitivities.
How can I Do an At-home Food Sensitivity Test?
At-home food sensitivity tests are generally pretty simple to use, and they all come with step-by-step instructions that you can follow for an uncomplicated experience. Below, we have outlined a few things that you must know and take into consideration for successful home food sensitivity testing. But first, here are some steps you can take to do your food allergies test at home.
Each at-home food intolerances test kit may require a different collection technique depending on the sample required, such as blood or saliva, hair, urine, etc. How you do your at-home food sensitivity test is highly dependent on the sample type that the test requires, and may also rely on the type of food allergies you are testing yourself for.
These are the basic steps that are similar across all types of samples. These include,
- The first thing you must do is search for a reputable company and register online with the company you are purchasing the kit to do your food sensitivity test at home. Below you will find a list of trustworthy companies to choose from.
- Next, once the package gets delivered to you, read the instructions and collect the sample for your food sensitivity home test as directed. Try not to rush; this can cause mistakes.
- Once you have collected your sample, package it, and ship it to the lab address provided. The company you purchase your kit from will provide an envelope or other packaging resource for you to ship the sample in.
- Lastly, check for your results either via email or your online account with the company. The results are usually ready in five to ten days after sample submission. If necessary, get treated right away.
Depending on your result, some companies will provide clinician support or referral to make the process easier for you.
It is imperative that you follow the instructions correctly to facilitate getting an accurate result. You do not want to get a false positive or negative reading based on an incorrect technique.
Additionally, ensure you pay attention to expiration dates. These are typically clearly printed on the instruction manual.
As such, sending the sample for testing as soon as you’ve collected it or according to their guidelines is highly recommended.
A food-sensitivity test that is based on a small blood sample detects the presence of antibodies called IgG. If the antibodies are high, that means a particular food is causing your symptoms.
This can help you narrow down your list of suspected foods. An elimination diet can then help you find the cause of your food sensitivity. It is important to note that a food allergy test can be just as or more accurate than your personal experience.
Quick Look
- TestMyAllergy– Assesses 78 allergy and intolerance items using IgE antibodies blood analysis for allergies and IgG4 blood analysis for intolerances.
- Allergy Test– Tests for the 117 most common allergies and intolerances to provide a comprehensive food sensitivity kit.
- 5Strands– The 5Strands food intolerance test offers testing for over 640 foods.
- Everlywell– This at-home lab test measures your body’s immune response to 96 foods.
- MyLab Box– Identifies 96 food sensitivities and is guaranteed to be pain-free.
- Verisana– Measures your body’s immune response to 208 foods and Candida albicans.
- Cerascreen– Measures biomarkers for 208 sensitivities and 44 allergies.
Overview
TestMyAllergy’s Combined Allergy & Intolerance assesses 78 allergy and intolerance items using IgE blood analysis for allergies and IgG4 blood analysis for intolerances. Some of these include cheeses, wheat, egg, pollens, and vegetables.
This exclusive combined allergy and intolerance test kit is quite comprehensive and is likely to detect everyday causes of food allergy-related symptoms.
Your results are then generated into an email report or directed to the Free Global Sciences app on Apple or Google.
Highlights
- Your purchase includes a sample kit, return envelope, and downloadable report
- Results are very accessible and can even be seen on the Free Global Sciences app on Apple or Google
- This test kit uses IgE and IgG4 blood sample collection
- TestMyAllergy’s Combined Allergy & Intolerance test was voted Best Overall Blood Allergy Test by Verywell Health
- Tests for 78 allergy and intolerance items
- This brand uses the latest ELISA testing technology
- The easy-to-use testing kit is shipped immediately on purchase and should reach you within 5 working days
- Testing is conducted in a state-of-the-art facility that is certified according to ISO 9001
- Samples are processed within 5-7 working days
Pricing
The TestMyAllergy’s Combined Allergy & Intolerance food sensitivity testing kit is available on their website for $169. You can also get free shipping and couples and family discounts.
My Take
This at-home food sensitivity test is ideal for anyone affected by undiagnosed symptoms, including but not limited to stomach pains after eating, vomiting, skin rashes, migraines, and itchy eyes and skin.
This fast, easy, and accurate allergy test will check for both allergy and intolerance to help you find out which food items are causing your symptoms.
Overview
Allergy Test Allergy & Intolerance Test Plus tests for the 117 most common allergies and intolerances to provide a comprehensive food sensitivity kit.
This is one of the best at-home food sensitivities kits, and it gives you a fast and cost-effective way of screening by using ELISA testing for raised IgE and IgG4 antibodies.
Allergy Test offers accurate lab results to help you with adjusting your diet and lifestyle to reduce or avoid food triggers.
Highlights
- Your test results are delivered via one easy-to-understand report in PDF format
- Allergy Test’s expert team has over 20 years of combined experience in allergy & intolerance testing
- All testing is done in a category 2, ISO9001 accredited allergy and intolerance testing laboratory
- This kit evaluates 38 allergies within the food and the environment
- 79 possible food intolerances are tested
- Your test results are sent securely to your email and app within 7 days of receiving a sample
- The test uses a finger-prick blood sample collection method
- CE-marked kit
- You will also receive a complete guide on how to perform an elimination diet of reacting items.
Pricing
Allergy Test Allergy & Intolerance Test Plus is available at a reduced price of $183 on their website. The company also offers free shipping and bundle discounts.
My Take
This at-home food sensitivity testing kit is ideal for anyone who needs to check their food intolerance status and those on an elimination diet.
Overview
The 5Strands food intolerance test offers testing for over 640 proteins, grains, fruits, vegetables, seafood, gluten, additives, preservatives, sweeteners, beverages, dairy, fats, etc.
Based on your results, the company will provide you with a recommended elimination guideline.
Also, to make themselves one of the best at-home food intolerance test brands, 5Strands uses bioresonance technology to determine the food items creating a temporary imbalance in the gut microbiome.
Highlights
- You will receive a personalized elimination diet plan according to your test results
- 5Strands offers intolerance testing to 640+ proteins, grains, fruits, vegetables, seafood, gluten, additives, preservatives, sweeteners, beverages, dairy, fats, etc.
- This test uses bioresonance technology, which is commonly used in holistic or complementary medicine
- 5Strands employs a holistic approach using energy-based technology allows them to get to the root cause of your discomfort
- Receive your test results on the customer portal within 10 days of your sample’s arrival
- Uses a less painful and messy hair sample collection method
Pricing
The 5Strands food intolerance test is available for $88.00 on their website. They accept PayPal and other payment options.
My Take
This at-home food sensitivity test by 5Strand is ideal for anyone who needs regular testing due to its affordability but is also suitable for anyone who is experiencing food intolerance symptoms.
Overview
This at-home lab test measures your body’s immune response to 96 foods to help guide you on what types of food to prioritize in a two-part elimination diet.
The Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test uses IgG Reactivity to test for sensitivity toward 96 foods using a finger-prick blood sample collection.
It is not a food allergy test and also cannot diagnose celiac disease or lactose intolerance. However, it can determine sensitivity, as each food will be rated on a Class scale of 0-3: Class 0 (normal reactivity) to Class 3 (high reactivity).
A higher than normal IgG reactivity level can mean that there’s a possibility that food can be giving you symptoms—making that food an ideal candidate to include in your list to initially remove in a two-part elimination diet.
Highlights
- This test uses IgG Reactivity to 96 foods
- This test helps to guide a two-part elimination diet
- Each lab that Everlywell works with is CLIA-certified (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments)
- Everlywell tests are reviewed and approved by an independent board-certified physician within your state
- Everlywell is HIPAA-compliant and takes your privacy very seriously. They use state-of-the-art encryption to store data securely and will never sell your data
- You will receive easy-to-understand and actionable test results and additional resources, and helpful tips along the way.
Pricing
The Everlywell Food Sensitivity Test is available for $119.25 when you use the code JULY on their official website. Otherwise, the cost is $159. Plus, you can get free shipping on each order, and FSA/HSA is accepted.
My Take
The food sensitivities testing kit provided by Everlywell is suitable for people with non-life-threatening symptoms, such as abdominal pain, bloating, headache, diarrhea, and indigestion. Remember to use the coupon code at checkout for your discount.
Overview
This food sensitivity test identifies 96 food sensitivities and is guaranteed to be pain-free, as it uses a simple finger-prick sample collection method.
MyLab Box offers a pretty simple lab-certified 5-minute test, and you can expect to receive your results within two days.
Highlights
- You have access to free physician consultations
- You should get your test results within 2 days after the lab receives your sample
- Identifies 96 food sensitivities
- Offers 100% pain-free testing
- MylaB Box works only with the best laboratories and health experts to ensure your tests results meet the nationwide standard
- The laboratories they work with are certified CAP and CLIA high complexity testing organizations
- MylaB Box uses HIPAA web security protocols to protect your data
- This food sensitivities test kit is CDC Listed
Pricing
You can access the myLAB Box food sensitivity test for $149.00, and you also get free shipping.
My Take
This at-home testing kit for food sensitivity can be used by both men and women suffering from food sensitivity symptoms, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed.
Overview
This food sensitivity test identifies 96 food sensitivities and is guaranteed to be pain-free, as it uses a simple finger-prick sample collection method.
MyLab Box offers a pretty simple lab-certified 5-minute test, and you can expect to receive your results within two days.
Highlights
- You have access to free physician consultations
- You should get your test results within 2 days after the lab receives your sample
- Identifies 96 food sensitivities
- Offers 100% pain-free testing
- MylaB Box works only with the best laboratories and health experts to ensure your tests results meet the nationwide standard
- The laboratories they work with are certified CAP and CLIA high complexity testing organizations
- MylaB Box uses HIPAA web security protocols to protect your data
- This food sensitivities test kit is CDC Listed
Pricing
You can access the myLAB Box food sensitivity test for $149.00, and you also get free shipping.
My Take
This at-home testing kit for food sensitivity can be used by both men and women suffering from food sensitivity symptoms, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed.
Overview
The Cerascreen Extensive Food Sensitivity Test measures biomarkers for 208 sensitivities and 44 allergies.
Using the sample collection and send-in kit for at-home use, you simply take a small blood sample to find out if you react with antibodies to the foods that cause the majority of allergies and sensitivities.
Of note, this test is unavailable in NY, NJ, RI, or MD.
Highlights
- Take your sample easily from the comfort of home
- CLIA-certified lab analysis using the ELISA testing method
- Detection of specific IgE and IgG4 antibodies
- Usable, practical recommendations & tips
- Quick turnaround of test results once the sample has reached the lab
- 30-day refund policy
- After receiving your results, book a free call with our nutrition consultant to review your results and any recommended dietary or lifestyle changes
- Get fast and free shipping
- All results are reviewed by a doctor
- The company also offers a range of supplemental health and wellness courses
Pricing
The Cerascreen Extensive Food Sensitivity Test is available for $289.00 for a single pack, but you could save $92.00 if you purchase a double-pack for $486.00. You will receive free shipping on every purchase.
My Take
This food sensitivity and allergy testing kit is ideal for those who have unexplained symptoms, as it can offer you a great initial indication of problematic foods.
Are At-home Food Sensitivity Tests Accurate?
Yes, at-home food sensitivity tests can be accurate. There are a few factors that help to determine the accuracy of your results, like proper sample collection.
There are dozens of at-home products designed to diagnose food sensitivity. These kits are popular because of their convenience and alleged accuracy, but they’re not 100% reliable.
Many of these tests use a blood test called the immunoglobulin G (IgG) test, which measures immune system antibodies to 87 common foods. However, IgG blood tests don’t identify food allergies, just intolerances.
Also, each company is expected to adhere to high standards set by regulatory bodies, and these standards help to make sure that the tests are as accurate as possible.
Summary
It is not encouraged that you wait around to watch your symptoms. If you notice an allergic reaction or sensitivity to specific foods, speak to a healthcare professional and start using a suitable at-home food sensitivity test kit to ensure your health and wellness.
These convenient allergy testing kits are also reliable and typically accurate, and affordable.