Food Sensitivities and Intolerances:
Identifying Your Triggers
Food sensitivities and intolerances are adverse reactions to certain foods that can cause a wide range of symptoms, often delayed and difficult to pinpoint. Unlike food allergies, which involve an immediate immune system response, sensitivities and intolerances are typically related to digestive difficulties or delayed immune reactions. At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, Dr. Tiffani Fries helps patients identify their food triggers and develop personalized dietary plans to improve their health and well-being.
Understanding Food Sensitivities and Intolerances
Food sensitivities involve a delayed immune response, often mediated by IgG antibodies. These reactions can take hours or even days to appear, making it challenging to connect symptoms to specific foods.
Food intolerances are non-immune reactions that typically occur due to the body’s inability to properly digest certain foods. A common example is lactose intolerance, where the body lacks sufficient lactase enzyme to break down lactose, the sugar in milk.
Common Symptoms of Food Sensitivities and Intolerances:
- Digestive issues (bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation)
- Headaches and migraines
- Fatigue
- Skin problems (eczema, rashes, acne)
- Joint pain
- Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
- Mood swings
Common Food Triggers:
- Gluten
- Dairy
- Soy
- Corn
- Eggs
- Nightshades (tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, eggplant)
- Nuts
- Artificial sweeteners and additives
The Salt Lake Functional Medicine Approach to Food Sensitivities and Intolerances
Dr. Fries, DC utilizes a comprehensive approach to identify and address food sensitivities and intolerances. This may involve:
Detailed Assessment:
A thorough evaluation of your health history, symptoms, diet, and lifestyle.
Food Sensitivity Testing:
IgG antibody testing or other specialized tests may be used to help identify potential food triggers.
Elimination Diet:
A carefully planned elimination diet may be recommended to systematically remove and reintroduce foods to pinpoint sensitivities.
Personalized Support Plans:
Based on your individual needs and test results, Dr. Fries, DC will create a tailored plan that may include
Dietary Modifications:
Avoiding identified trigger foods while focusing on a nutrient-dense, whole-foods diet.
Gut Healing Protocols:
Implementing strategies to repair the gut lining and restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
Supplementation:
Using specific supplements to support digestion, reduce inflammation, and address nutrient deficiencies.
Reclaiming Your Health
At Salt Lake Functional Medicine, we understand the significant impact that food sensitivities and intolerances can have on your life. By identifying your individual triggers and providing personalized dietary guidance, we aim to help you reduce symptoms, improve your digestive health, and reclaim your overall well-being.
