By Sharon Hunter, ND
One factor we investigate with regard to diet is the area of food sensitivities. Without realizing it, many people are sensitive to foods that they eat often. It can even be foods which are eaten several times per day, making it very difficult to figure out on our own which foods, if any, are causing or contributing to chronic symptoms.
Common examples of conditions caused by food intolerances are irritable bowel syndrome, heartburn/reflux, and other digestive symptoms, fatigue, joint pain, headache, chronic congestion, asthma, eczema, fatigue, acne, inability to lose weight and many more.
Eating foods to which we are sensitive to can cause inflammation in our bodies, which causes weight gain and weight retention. When people identify and eliminate these food sensitivities, they often easily lose some weight and feel far better in the process.
A 2012 study looked at Food Sensitivities and Weight Loss. There were 120 participants (16% male, 84% female). The mean age was 45.5. Participants were given IgG food testing by blood. This is the same test used in our office. On average, participants tested sensitive to 15 foods. They then eliminated the reactive foods for 90 days. There was 95-98% compliance. The most common reactive foods were: pinto bean, mushroom, tomato, kidney bean, cheese, eggs, wheat, cow’s milk, baker’s yeast and brewer’s yeast.
The outcomes measured at baselines, 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days were Weight, Body Mass Index, and Waist/Hip ratio. The best results were seen at 90 days.
l Participants lost an average of almost 1 pound per week
l Participants lost nearly 3 inches from the waist and just under 1.5 inches from the hip.
l Factors of vitality, bodily pain, and general health improved.
This study reflected what I see in my practice. People who do an elimination of their reactive foods experience symptomatic improvement, weight loss, and enhanced well-being.
The food sensitivity test used in this study is available through the Connecticut Center for Health. Talk to your doctor to see if this test might be right for you.
