An intolerance test is a diagnostic tool that can help you identify foods which may be causing digestive symptoms for you. However, with many of these tests available in the high street and online, it can be difficult to know which ones are reliable or based on evidence. In this article, we take a look at the different types of intolerance tests on the market and whether they are scientifically valid.

A food allergy is a reaction that involves the immune system and typically causes symptoms such as hives or tongue swelling. These reactions can be very serious and need to be treated urgently by a doctor. In contrast, a food intolerance is usually not life-threatening and the symptoms are slower to develop than an allergic reaction. Food intolerances can also be more difficult to diagnose, because they don’t always produce a clear or obvious sign or symptom.

Various online home test kits claim to be able to detect intolerances by measuring the levels of certain antibodies in your blood, after you are exposed to food antigens. However, 2016 research suggests that these tests are not accurate or reliable. In fact, some tests can produce misleading results by detecting other antibodies and cell-mediated reactions that are not related to food intolerances.

Some tests may require you to consume a specific type of food and then give a sample for analysis. This includes the lactose intolerance test, which measures your ability to break down a type of sugar called lactose, found in milk and dairy products. It is recommended that you don’t drink any milk or eat any dairy products before taking the lactose test, to ensure an accurate result.

Other tests such as hair and saliva testing can also be used to identify problematic foods. These tests can be useful, but should only be carried out by a qualified practitioner who is registered with a healthcare organisation.

Excluding whole groups of foods from the diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies and a reduced quality of life, especially if you do not replace them properly. In addition, it is possible that the same foods can cause reactions in both people with and without a genuine intolerance.

A personalised approach to discovering the foods that are making you feel unwell should involve the use of food intolerance tests, alongside a comprehensive clinical history and detailed food diary. This will allow you to identify any problems and take steps towards improving your digestive health. For best results, you should seek the guidance of a dietitian when choosing which foods to eliminate from your diet. They will be able to offer advice on how to achieve the best outcomes through a temporary elimination and reintroduction diet.