(IgG, IgE, IgA)
No one knows why the immune system produces antibodies to certain foods, but when it does, a noticeable food reaction may result. We tests for food-specific reactions to three different antibodies: IgG, IgE and IgA
Food Allergy
A true food allergy is triggered by IgE antibody production specific to a reactive food. IgE reactions generally occur within minutes of eating a reactive food, which is why they are also called ‘immediate’ hypersensitivity reactions. After the first exposure to a food allergen, the body remembers what the allergen looks like and keeps a supply of IgE ready for immediate release if it sees that allergen again. Food allergies can be life-threatening (anaphylactic reaction to bee sting, nuts etc.) Skin reactions like hives and eczema, itchy watery eyes, plus breathing and digestive problems are also common IgE reactions.
Food Sensitivity
Food Sensitivity is a term that usually refers to delayed immune reactions to foods. For example, IgG and IgA reactions to foods are commonly referred to as food sensitivities. A food sensitivity can cause some of the same signs and symptoms of a food allergy, so people often confuse the two.