Even some healthy foods can be inflammatory for many of us with food sensitivities. Symptoms of food sensitivities may be mild or severe but these sensitivities lead to prolonged inflammation that can eventually result in chronic illnesses, like cancer. Henry Ford Health provides a great overview of the difference between food allergies, intolerances and sensitivities.
Since symptoms do not show up immediately and they are not always obvious, you can have food sensitivities for many years and not know. Common symptoms of food sensitivities are:
- Joint aches
- Chronic allergies/congestion
- Chronic skin rashes
- Bloating/constipation
- Diarrhea
- Migraines
- Chronic fatigue
The top allergens include gluten, dairy, corn, eggs, soy, nuts, nightshades (tomatoes, bell peppers, potatoes, and eggplant). You can either try an elimination diet or ask a practitioner for a blood test to diagnose which food sensitivities you may have. This can be helpful in figuring out what is causing your inflammation. Also, have your practitioner test your inflammatory markers to establish a baseline. You may be able to identify any potential concerns where you can intervene early for prevention or better management of your health.
Rupa Health offers two great articles that you can read and bring to your next appointment. You can work with your practitioner to assess your symptoms and order the right labs for more personalized care.
- Inflammatory Markers 101: How to Interpret
- Top 5 Food Sensitivity Tests for Functional Medicine Providers
Each healthy choice you make leaves one less cancer cell surviving in your body! Reach out to learn more.