It’s true that we gain weight when we eat more than we burn off. Many factors can impact the, “burning off” part of the equation. Chronic inflammation is one of them. Weight gain can also be caused by hypothyroidism, food sensitivity (as mentioned) Cushing’s syndrome, organ disease, prescription drug use (e.g. antidepressants) anxiety, blood sugar imbalance, essential fatty acid deficiency or lack of sleep.
Many people respond to stress or depression by eating excessively. Reactions to foods are not always immediate. They may be delayed by several hours, possibly even one or two days. Common signs include; bloating and swelling in the hands, feet, ankles, abdomen, and skin and around the eyes. Much of the weight gained is fluid retention caused by inflammation and the release of certain hormones. In addition, there is fermentation of foods, particularly carbohydrates, in the intestines which can result in a swollen distended belly and gas production. Inflammation associated with food sensitivities can lead to weight gain and obesity 1, 2. According to the WHO a BMI (body mass index) equal to or more than 25 is considered overweight. A BMI equal to or more than 30 is considered obese 3. Obesity can lead to pathological, chronic disorders like diabetes, cardiovascular conditions and cancer 3. The WHO suggests that in 2008 more than 1.4 billion adults were overweight and of these over 200 million adults were obese 3. Obesity is a preventable condition according to the WHO. _______________________________________ Healthy weight loss! The inability to achieve and maintain a healthy weight might be silent inflammation (chronic low-level inflammation) 4. BMI is based only on the size in relation to weight, but does not consider the real “body composition”, including abdominal or peripheral fat accumulation (fat around organs). Hence, measurement of BMI without measurement of body composition may be misleading. It is possible to not be overweight but to be over fat. _______________________________________ What causes overweight? How much does the lean, fat-free body part weigh, and how much does the fat? A person can be overweight without a high body fat percentage. The overweight may come from muscle mass. When it is placed in relation to the fat percentage, muscle mass is denser and therefore weighs more. A person who is not “fat-overweight” is not under the same disease risks, such as a “fat-overweight”. On the other hand, people may have a too high fat content but “ideal weight” according to the BMI. This condition is called normal weight obesity. Consequently, the risk of disease and inflammation is higher, even though they fall within the ideal weight category. Thus the fat proportion plays the biggest health role, regardless of the weight. Too much muscle mass pose no health risks. In contrast to the widespread opinion that fat is stored in the form of a wobbly mass as excess calories, it is metabolically active tissue 5. Leptins are hormones which are produced in fat cells 5. They send signals to the brain that you are sated. But if excessive fat is accumulated – particularly in the abdominal and peripheral area – adipose tissue then becomes an important endocrine tissue and sends inflammatory biochemicals 5. These inflammatory mediators cause low grade systemic inflammation in “fat-obese” people even though weight is normal according to the BMI! Alcat Food Sensitivity Testing has been shown to be an important tool to reduce inflammation and weight. I understand time may be a factor in your efforts to fully educate your patients on Alcat, the importance of gut health, inflammation reduction, and weight loss. If you would like a patient handout on this topic, please contact me: Nancy Cohen RDN LDN 904-687-0720/970 875-7114 Info@feedingthebodyfeedingthesoul.com
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The Alcat Test is the gold standard in food intolerance testing and is a cost-effective alternative to the trial and error method of identifying possible trigger foods MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif., Sept. 13, 2016 /PRNewswire/ — Based on its recent analysis of the food intolerance testing market, Frost & Sullivan recognizes Cell Science Systems Corporation (CSS) with the 2016 North American Company of the Year Award. CSS has done a remarkable job of sustaining its market leadership over the last 20 years on the strength of its flagship Alcat Test, a cellular test for food, chemical, mold, functional food, additive, and drug sensitivities. The results translate into benefit for many clinical conditions such as overweight, gastrointestinal disorders, skin rashes, arthritis, migraine and many others. The company’s advanced testing solutions present valuable advice and quantitative data that aid customers in changing their food habits to lead healthier, happier lives. The Alcat Test is the only technology in the market to have been clinically validated after rigorous tests by independent bodies. CSS is the only company in this space to be a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-registered medical device manufacturer that voluntarily maintains ISO EN 13485 certification. It is fully vertically integrated, from instrument manufacture to test reagent production, and complies with current good manufacturing practice (cGMP) regulations. This will hold it in good stead when the FDA begins to regulate lab-developed tests (LDTs), as it currently does with medical devices. CSS’s Alcat Test identifies changes in blood cell sizes in response to exposure to foreign substances. After the removal of red blood cells, white blood cells are incubated with purified food extracts or other test substances. Changes in cell size and number are measured through the impedance method, the international standard of particle sizing and counting. A proprietary algorithm facilitates statistical comparison of a patient’s normal cell profile with post-incubation samples. “No single immune factor, antibody, or cytokine has been — or is likely to be — identified as the standard biomarker of food sensitivity. Therefore, the Alcat Test in-vitro method is unlikely to be supplanted by any existing or future assay,” said Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Aishwarya Vivekanandan. “As the awareness of a validated methodology for assessing patient-specific triggers of inflammation rises, many more mainstream healthcare providers will adopt the test.” “We are delighted to be recognized as a leader in the food sensitivity and intolerance testing market. Recent clinical testing continues to indicate the importance of understanding the relationship between food sensitivities, inflammation and the innate immune system in our overall health and wellness,” stated Roger Deutsch, President and CEO of Cell Science Systems. Since the first commercialization of the test in the late 1980s, CSS has collaborated with a number of academic institutions and clinics that have assessed and validated the technical and clinical utility of the Alcat Test. Academic institutions involved in these trials include the Yale School of Medicine, Northern Illinois University, University of Pavia, and Baylor Medical College, Sports Medicine and Performance Institute. CSS partners with providers such as Any Lab Test Now and other Walk-in Labs to offer direct-to-consumer testing solutions. As competitors tend to focus on test results and not the transferability of the information to the patient, customers often find it challenging to glean useful information from the voluminous data. CSS, on the other hand, ensures that its actionable data are color-coded and quantitatively presented in an easy-to-understand format in addition to offering personalized consulting with physicians and nutritionists. With the success of its flagship product, CSS is expanding its portfolio to cover bowel disorders such as celiac disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and Crohn’s disease with its CICA profile solution (Celiac, IBS, Crohns’ Array). It continues to strengthen its profile in the chronic disease segment with its MethylDetox Profile, which helps customers understand their genetic constitutions and address health issues by changing their diets and nutritional intake. Customers find value not only in CSS’s tests but also its consulting and support services. “Significantly, CSS has CE certification for the free sale of its current analyzer and reagents in the European Union, as well as approvals from the ministries of health in several countries,” noted Vivekanandan. “CSS operates as a wholly owned subsidiary in Germany, providing testing to markets in Europe and the Middle East.” For its overall excellence in growth, innovation, and visionary leadership in the food intolerance testing market, Frost & Sullivan is thrilled to present CSS with the 2016 North America Frost & Sullivan Company of the Year Award. Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has demonstrated superiority in devising a strong growth strategy and implementing it. The recipient has shown strength in terms of innovation in products and technologies, leadership in customer value, as well as speed in response to market needs. In short, the award looks at the emerging market players in the industry and recognises their best practices that position them for future growth. Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry. About Cell Science Systems, Corporation (CSS) Cell Science Systems (cellsciencesystems.com) is a specialty clinical laboratory that develops and performs laboratory testing in immunology, cell biology, molecular diagnostics, and other specialties, supporting the personalized treatment and prevention of chronic disease. Cell Science Systems, Corp. operates a CLIA certified laboratory and is an FDA inspected registered, cGMP medical device manufacturer meeting ISO EN13485 standards. Cell Science Systems is best known for pioneering the Alcat Test® for food and chemical sensitivities. The company operates a wholly owned subsidiary in Europe. Do you want to get to the bottom of your own Food Sensitivity Issues? Do you want to know more about the ALCAT Food and Chemical Sensitivity Test for yourself? Contact Nancy Cohen RDN LDN Feeding The Body Feeding The Soul LLC 970-875-7114 
Feeding The Body Feeding The Soul LLC announces that it is now offering specialized laboratory testing through Cell Science Systems, Inc. (CSS). CSS is best known for providing the Alcat – Food Sensitivity Test. CSS understands that inflammation is the cause of many chronic health conditions. The Alcat Test is a blood test that can scientifically measure the blood cell response when introduced to up to 400 different foods, chemicals, herbs, anti-inflammatory agents and antibiotics. The test will determine food and chemical intolerances and provide an individualized diet plan. What is Food Intolerance/Sensitivity? Food intolerances occur when the digestive system is unable to digest a particular food. These food particles can then enter the blood stream where the T helper cells see these foods as invaders and cause inflammation. According to Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist Nancy Ann Cohen RDN LDN, extensive research has shown that excessive production of such molecules can attack and cause damage to normal tissues by triggering the inflammation response. Inflammation is believed to be the underlying process involved in disease formation, and can be a contributing cause to many common symptoms experienced by people including brain fog, fatigue, depression, rashes, sinus, respiratory and digestive symptoms, and diseases like celiac, thyroid, arthritis, and other autoimmune conditions. About Feeding The Body Feeding The Soul LLC Feeding The Body Feeding The Soul is a Health and Wellness Practice located in Northern St, Augustine Fl. Offering a variety of Tailored Nutrition Counseling Sessions as well as Alternative Modalities of Energy Healing, FTBFTS is a one stop center for Nutrition Counseling, Food Sensitivity Testing(ALCAT), Micronutrient Testing for vitamin and mineral levels and more as well as tailored supplement recommendations. for adults and children. We customize programs for your individual needs with sustained outcomes and benefits. About Cell Science Systems Cell Science Systems (www.alcat.com) is a specialty clinical laboratory that develops and performs laboratory testing in immunology, cell biology, molecular diagnostics, and other specialties supporting the personalized treatment and prevention of chronic disease. CSS operates a CLIA certified laboratory and is a FDA inspected registered, cGMP medical device manufacturer meeting ISO EN13485 standards. CSS is best known as the sole provider of the proprietary the Alcat Test for food and chemical sensitivities. The company operates subsidiaries in Europe and Asia. For more information contact Nancy Cohen RDN LDN at 970-875-7114 or info@feedingthebodyfeedingthesoul.com Testing can be performed Nationwide. 
Go With Your Gut: Food Sensitivities Could be the Cause of Your Symptoms You are ready to throw your hands up in the air with frustration because you have been to multiple doctors and had endless tests yet nothing is conclusive. You may have chronic headaches, aches and pains, fatigue, digestive or skin issues to name a few and at a loss at how to find relief. Clinical studies conclusively show that adverse food and chemical reactions can cause inflammation presenting in a variety of symptoms associated with a wide range of common and often debilitating conditions. These symptoms may appear 4 – 96 hours after ingestion making it difficult to determine exactly what is causing the inflammation. Believe it or not, but inflammation caused by adverse food and chemical reactions starts in your gut! Gut Health The National Institute of Health has been a front runner in microbiome research and it's affect on the human body. The microbiome is a compilation of healthy and harmful bacteria. Our digestive tract needs these healthy bacteria (Bifidobacteria and Acidophilus) to maintain its health and integrity. The digestive tract is responsible not only for food digestion, but our nervous, hormonal and immune systems. Many are unaware that 60 – 70% of the immune system resides in the large intestine emphasizing the importance of intestinal health.
Food Allergy vs. Sensitivity: What is the difference? Let us first review the differences between allergies and sensitivities. People often say they are allergic to certain foods, but upon further assessment, the symptoms described are not those of food allergies, but rather food sensitivities or intolerances. What is a Food Allergy? A food allergy is an immune system response to compounds found in foods. Food allergies occur when the body mistakes the food eaten as an invader and sends antibodies to fight it. This is what is called an IgE reaction. When a person with a food allergy eats an offending food, IgE triggers a chain of reactions that result in the body releasing chemicals, such as histamine to expel the “invader” from the body. Depending on the tissue in which these chemicals are released, a person will present a variety of food allergy symptoms. Typical symptoms present within 4 hours and may include anaphylaxis, runny nose, itchy mouth or eyes or hives. For some, it is deadly. Common food allergens include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts (walnuts, pecans and almonds), wheat, soy, fish and shellfish. They are considered “the big eight” because they are the most common food allergens. Together they make up about 90 percent of all food related allergic reactions. Eggs, milk and peanuts are the most common allergens in children. Unlike adults, children can sometimes outgrow their food allergies, especially to milk and soy. What is Food Intolerance/Sensitivity? Food intolerance is a digestive system response rather than an immune system response (as in food allergies). Food intolerances occur when the digestive system is unable to digest a particular food. These food particles can then enter the blood stream where the T helper cells see these foods as invaders and cause inflammation. Some symptoms of food intolerance overlap with food allergy symptoms. People with food intolerances are usually able to consume small amounts of food without experiencing adverse reactions, while even small amounts of food allergens can cause severe reactions. Unlike the immediate immune response seen with food allergies, food sensitivity reactions are delayed reactions by the immune system. Because of the delay in response, it is often difficult to notice the offending foods that trigger the immune reaction. According to Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist Nancy Cohen,RDN, extensive research has shown that excessive production of such molecules can attack and cause damage to normal tissues by triggering the inflammation response. Inflammation is believed to be the underlying process involved in disease formation, and can be a contributing cause to many common symptoms experienced by people including brain fog, fatigue, depression, rashes, sinus, respiratory and digestive symptoms, and diseases like celiac, thyroid, arthritis, and other autoimmune conditions. How do you know if you have Food Sensitivity? There are several methods to determine food sensitivities. Some require eliminating entire food groups, keeping detailed food journals or taking a scientific blood test.
Establishing Good Gut Health Maintaining good gut microflora is a constant battle. Our bodies are continually being exposed to pathogens, pesticides in foods, antibiotics, foods causing sensitivities, processed foods and stress. It takes a daily regiment of eating healthfully, eliminating foods that cause sensitivities and stress reduction to establish and maintain good gut health. To learn more about food sensitivities and the Alcat test, contact Nancy Cohen, RDN, Nutritionist- Feeding The Body Feeding The Soul,LLC. 970-875-7114. 
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