Dr. Carrie Jones: Food Allergies Vs. Food Intolerances
A quick peak in the research shows overwhelmingly that the most common allergies (IgE) are Peanuts, Tree Nuts (cashews, almonds, etc.), Seafood, Wheat, Dairy, Egg and Soy. Interestingly enough, these are also the most common intolerances (IgG) just a slightly different order: Wheat, Dairy, Soy, Egg, Seafood, Tree Nuts, and Peanuts.
In my experience, I see smaller odd-ball foods too that produce large ‘Ah-ha!’ moments when discovered on testing. “Dr. Jones – I eat that everyday!” “Dr. Jones, I grew up on those.” “Dr. Jones, I take that as a supplement.”
So what do you do? First consider getting tested for both IgE and IgG food categories. Many doctors are familiar with the IgE testing but not with IgG testing so you may have to do some research. If you cannot test then the easiest and cheapest is straight forward elimination. I recommend taking the top two, wheat and dairy, and get them out of your diet. I am not kidding. Go on a wheat-free, dairy-free diet for a full month and see how you feel. There are several resources on-line and many grocery stores now that offer a variety of options. You will not starve – I promise.
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