​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
​

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.

• 95% of all chronic disease has an inflammatory component.
• Gut integrity prevents or sets the stage for food sensitivity, immune dysfunction, inflammation, & chronic disease.
• Determining and removing foods that cause inflammation can be an important part of breaking the cycle of chronic inflammation and improved patient outcomes.

 
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. 

• Food Group Elimination – Providers will instruct clients to eliminate specific foods groups such as wheat/gluten, corn, eggs, dairy and soy.  After eliminating all of the foods for 1 – 3 months, the client will add in one food group at a time to determine tolerance.  This is a lengthy process and can create a very restrictive diet.
• Food Journaling – This method is less precise and much more difficult to determine the food/symptom causation.   The client will write down everything they eat and symptoms as they occur.  Since food sensitivity symptoms are not immediate, it can be hard to determine which foods are causing the symptoms.
• Alcat Food Sensitivity Testing – This 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 which items are causing the inflammation and individualize what needs to be eliminated from your diet. 

 
 
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.

​A few years ago I got a phone call from an Alcat Dietitian asking if I wanted to bring this Food and Chemical Sensitivity work to my clients.  I said yes and decided to have my own panel run for the 400 plus items that could be tested.
​
It was Labor Day weekend and I was having TMJ and a headache. I couldn’t get into the doctor for a day or so.I had just taken an ibuprofen product to relieve the pain of my throbbing jaw.

The next day  my ALCAT results came back. BAM!  I was reacting to over 70 food  items and chemicals. I had a sensitivity to ibuprofen and a few other items that I used routinely and several beverages including black and green teas and more ( if you want to know my list I’ll share).

So I had just finished taking some ibubrofen  for what I thought was TMJ and my face was throbbing. I had also just finished eating 15 or more foods that I reacted too- typical scenario of my clients. I was even told by one of the doctors from my GI test that I was a candidate for Crohns/Colitis.  I was pretty frustrated.

I changed my food plan with the assistance of my Nutritionist- me, followed it diligently, added gut healing supplements. Within a few days the TMJ reduced to nothing and within a few months  my gi tract was calm and I had a perfect colonoscopy five months later.

You would be so surprised to see which inflammatory issues are influenced by leaky gut and Food Sensitivities.  I was so happy that I was the professional and the client.

If you struggle with have chronic headaches, aches and pains, fatigue, digestive or skin issues to name a few- then consider having The ALCAT Food and Chemical Sensitivity Test run today. Get to the bottom of ‘what is eating at you”.

Tests can be run nationwide and you can work with Nancy from the comfort of your own home.  
In good health,


​
​Nancy Cohen RDN LDN
Contact Nancy at 970-875-7114
feedingthebodyfeedingthesoul@gmail.com
St Augustine Florida, Steamboat Springs CO

I was so enthused to read the following research study on the benefits of following an ALCAT Food and Chemical Sensitivity protocol after having an ALCAT Test run. Whether you are fatigued, stressed, having poor digestion, focus or inflammation- the ALCAT test can assist you to get at "what is eating at you". Contact me today to discuss having your own test done and begin  walking the road to better health.

Nancy Cohen RDN LDN
​Nutritionist
970-875-7114



Effect of Alcat-Based Food Elimination on Inflammatory Markers, Body Composition, and Medical Symptoms

Research was conducted by Lukaszuk J, Shokrani M, Hoppensteadt J, and Umoren J in the spring of 2015 at Northern Illinois University on the Alcat test (Cell Science Systems- CSS).

Researchers conclude:

• Elimination of inflammatory foods has a positive impact on SAA, BMI, and MSQ scores;
• Avoiding reactive foods and adhering to ALCAT results may positively influence inflammatory responses, body composition, and well-being.

The study is one of the first known to investigate the question of whether foods actually have an effect on total body inflammation. In the pre/post test, double-blind, study researchers did not know what protocol subjects would be on. 

Only CSS was aware of who was in the placebo and who was in the treatment group. Cell Science Systems provided the treatment group subjects ALCAT food sensitivity reactive food lists.  The placebo group were given a false list of foods to avoid.  Researchers provided subjects guidance as how to follow the elimination diet for 1 month.

The treatment group (n=87) received the correct list of foods to avoid, meaning what was in the red, orange, yellow, or blue columns. (Red = Severe Sensitivity; Orange = Moderate Sensitivity; Yellow = Mild Sensitivity; Blue = None, Mild, Moderate or Severe).  The placebo group (n=46) received a false list of foods to avoid. Neither the researchers nor the subjects knew what group they were in. Upon completion of the study, all participants were given their correct ALCAT reactive foods list.

Subjects followed a four-week elimination diet based on their ALCAT results. Blood samples, body composition, and medical symptoms questionnaire (MSQ) were completed day 1 and day 30. A Disease Symptom Inventory (DSI) was completed to see who would qualify for the study; the entire DSI consists of 20 questions. Subjects had to have a “3” (a somewhat severe effect) on at least two of the DSI questions to qualify to be in the study.

Researchers set out to recruit individuals with signs of inflammation present, not individuals who were healthy and symptom-free. For example, the initial DSI revealed individuals with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), eczema, anxiety, and other signs that they may be having food intolerance issues.

After 30 days on the elimination protocol, the treatment group experienced a statistically significant decrease in serum amyloid A levels (SAA) from day 1 to day 30. Conversely inflammation and SAA scores increased for the placebo group. The results were statistically significant at the 0.001 level. These remarkable results indicate that there is a significant decrease in inflammation when an individual follows their ALCAT elimination diet and avoids reactive foods.   The study utilized the SAA level as it can be considered a more sensitive marker for systemic inflammation than C-reactive protein (CRP).

Weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) also decreased during the study. When restricting any type or number of foods, an individual will be more aware of what they are eating, caloric intake will be reduced, and BMI will be expected to decrease. Although both groups in the current study lost weight, the treatment group had a much more significant BMI decrease then did the placebo group.

After the initial DSI was completed, an MSQ was administered looking at head, ears, eyes, nose, throat, overall wellbeing, energy level, joint pain, and basically how one feels overall. Individuals in the treatment group felt significantly better from day 1 to day 30. The placebo group had the benefit of feeling better but not nearly to the extent that the treatment group reported.

One particular individual with lung nodules of unknown origin ended up in the treatment group. MSQ at the beginning of the study was 160, a very high score that reflects a multitude of symptoms. At the end of the study his MSQ was 11, demonstrating that he felt exceptionally better. The individual took his ALCAT results, laminated them, and took them to the grocery store, to restaurants, to any place in which he was going to eat.

When he returned to the doctor’s office his physician asked what he was doing because his nodules were receding. He informed his physician that he was following the ALCAT elimination diet; the physician instructed him to continue what he was doing as the nodules were diminishing.

The study also looked at myeloperoxidase (MPO), an enzyme used by immune cells (neutrophils, monocytes) during microbiocidal activity. Levels of MPO decreased in both the treatment and placebo groups. Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is an inflammatory cytokine that is supposed to “drive the boat” in the sense that where it goes, everything else follows. Although it did increase in the treatment group, it increased considerably more in the placebo group.

The treatment group had a more significant decline in body fat than the placebo group though both groups lost weight.

Researchers conclude:

• Elimination of inflammatory foods has a positive impact on SAA, BMI, and MSQ scores;
• Avoiding reactive foods and adhering to ALCAT results may positively influence inflammatory responses, body composition, and well-being.

All study subjects indicated (in a post-study interview) that they would continue to eliminate reactive foods (as determined by the ALCAT food sensitivity test) because they felt so much better when avoiding those foods.

Contact Nancy at Feeding The Body Feeding The Soul for more information- 970-875-7114

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.

• 95% of all chronic disease has an inflammatory component.
  
  
• Gut integrity prevents or sets the stage for food sensitivity, immune dysfunction, inflammation, & chronic disease. 
  
  
• Determining and removing foods that cause inflammation can be an important part of breaking the cycle of chronic inflammation and improved patient outcomes.
  
  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 Lea Russell, 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.  

• Food Group Elimination – Providers will instruct clients to eliminate specific foods groups such as wheat/gluten, corn, eggs, dairy and soy.  After eliminating all of the foods for 1 – 3 months, the client will add in one food group at a time to determine tolerance.  This is a lengthy process and can create a very restrictive diet.
  
  
• Food Journaling – This method is less precise and much more difficult to determine the food/symptom causation.   The client will write down everything they eat and symptoms as they occur.  Since food sensitivity symptoms are not immediate, it can be hard to determine which foods are causing the symptoms.
  
  
• Alcat Food Sensitivity Testing – This 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 which items are causing the inflammation and individualize what needs to be eliminated from your diet.  
  
  

 
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. LDN at 970-875-7114 .
​

As a Nutritionist- I was sure I knew everything about modifying diets- that is until I had my own Alcat Food Sensitivity Test done in August. I had some TMJ and some digestion issues that I was sure I could fix on my own with herbs, or no dairy, or something my brain said I already knew..... then my results came in.I never imagined that I was having inflammation from some common foods that I- the Nutritionist  knew were "good" for me.

Food sensitivities are not allergies- food allergies are immediate responses that appear on the same day consumed either by skin or respiratory or some other reaction. Food sensitivities can appear up to four days later. 

So my Severe list contained- spinach, celery and oregano- and swordfish I don't generally eat. I gave away the spinach I had just purchased and started reading labels for celery and oregano sources. Yes indeed they were everywhere in my favorite items.

My moderate list had vanilla a host of other items and my most disappointing one- tea. How could they do this to me? I love tea- so no green, black, white, chai, earl grey and the list goes on...... I also had strong reactions to gluten and casein and whey- now my ice  cream and occasional cheese had to go? (yes- even Nutritionists eat ice cream-) 

There is more to say about my results- because there were quite a few other items I had responses to- but today after almost eight weeks- I feel significantly better. The TMJ disappeared- the GI issues are working themselves out.  I will continue with the process of removal and substitution for another 3-6 months.  So for todays tea substitutions I am drinking the following: chamomile, apple cinnamon, matte, and rooibos tea. Very delicious and welcoming when I wish for a warm or cold beverage. I am so pleased that my ALCAT results offer me information I would never be able to find from a food allergy panel and offer me the physical relief I welcome. How about you?
​