Blood Testing for Food Sensitivity and Clinical Benefits

TORONTO, March 27, 2012 /CNW/ - IgG Food Sensitivity or food antibody tests are used by some naturopathic doctors as a tool that assists both patient and practitioner in determining food sensitivities. Food sensitivities are not allergies, but can be a source of unfavourable health conditions such as headaches, eczema, irritable bowel syndrome and joint pain. Many patients of naturopathic doctors find the elimination of these food sensitivities beneficial to their overall health and quality of life.

IgG food sensitivity testing is not IgE allergy testing. IgE testing will offer the patient a clear (positive or negative) diagnosis of an allergic reaction to a specific substance. IgG food sensitivity results should be reviewed by a regulated health care practitioner as part of a patient's full medical history and may result in a recommendation to eliminate a particular food from their diet. Naturopathic doctors have the training and knowledge to understand the clinical relevance of the results and use this tool to identify and eliminate the irritant(s) as part of the diagnostic process.

"I use IgG testing in my practice as I have seen great results with my patients when combined with naturopathic treatments", Sara Celik, ND.

For patients, an alternative to IgG testing is an elimination diet. However many patients find this process too restrictive and compliance becomes a major issue.

The understanding of food sensitivity is evolving. Naturopathic doctors have the training to use the elimination of food with clinical impact for a variety of diseases and symptoms. Patients are at the centre of the practice of naturopathy and the successful elimination of a food sensitivity may be the best health outcome for that patient.

About the OAND

The Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors (OAND) provides leadership, advocacy and support for the profession in Ontario. Naturopathic Doctors are highly educated primary care providers who integrate standard medical diagnostics with a broad range of natural therapies. Established in 1950, the OAND is a voluntary professional Association representing 69 per cent of Ontario's 1,013 registered Naturopathic Doctors.

For more information about the OAND, visit our web site www.oand.org

For further Information, or to set up interviews with naturopathic doctors please contact:

Ronda Parkes, Director of Marketing
Phone: [phone] ext 228
Email: [email protected]