What Is IgG food Map Testing?
IgG food map testing is a type of blood test offered by Great Plains Lab. This test measures the levels of IgG antibodies to various foods in a person's bloodstream. IgG antibodies are immune system proteins that are produced in response to specific food antigens of chronic illnesses.
Who Is This For?
The IgG food map testing offered by Great Plains Lab involves collecting a blood sample from the individual and analyzing it in a laboratory using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technology.
The IgG food map testing aims to identify foods that may be triggering an individual's immune system, leading to various symptoms such as bloating, headaches, fatigue, and skin issues. By identifying these trigger foods, individuals can adjust their diet and eliminate or reduce their intake of these foods to potentially alleviate their symptoms.
The IgG food test may be helpful for a variety of patient populations and illnesses, including:
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Individuals with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms: The IgG food test may be helpful for individuals with symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, which may be caused by food intolerances or sensitivities.
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Individuals with autoimmune conditions: Some research suggests that certain foods may trigger autoimmune conditions or exacerbate symptoms. IgG food testing may help identify trigger foods and aid in managing symptoms for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and psoriasis.
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Individuals with neurological conditions: There is some evidence that food sensitivities may contribute to neurological symptoms such as migraines, headaches, and brain fog. IgG food testing may help identify trigger foods and improve symptoms in these individuals.
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Individuals with skin conditions: Some skin conditions such as eczema, hives, and acne may be related to food sensitivities. IgG food testing may help identify trigger foods and improve skin symptoms in these individuals.
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Individuals with chronic inflammation: Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of health conditions, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Certain foods may contribute to chronic inflammation, and IgG food testing may help identify trigger foods and reduce inflammation.
It's important to note that while IgG food testing may be helpful for some individuals, it is not a diagnostic tool and should not be used to diagnose a specific illness or condition. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted to interpret the results of the test and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
The results of the test are presented in a report that identifies the foods that the individual is reacting to and recommends a customized elimination diet based on those results.
Exploring Neuropsychiatric Connections
One theory is that food sensitivities may contribute to inflammation in the body, which can impact the brain and nervous system. Chronic inflammation has been linked to a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. By identifying and avoiding trigger foods, individuals may be able to reduce inflammation and improve their mental health symptoms.
Depression and Anxiety
In a randomized controlled trial published in Nutrients in 2020, researchers found that a diet low in fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs) improved symptoms of depression and anxiety in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The researchers hypothesized that the improvement in mental health symptoms may be related to the reduction in gut inflammation associated with the low-FODMAP diet.
Depression and Anxiety
In a systematic review published in the Journal of Affective Disorders in 2017, researchers found that a Mediterranean-style diet, characterized by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish, was associated with a reduced risk of depression. The researchers hypothesized that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of this diet may be responsible for the protective effect against depression.
Depression and Anxiety
A study published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research in 2019 found that a gluten-free diet improved symptoms of depression in individuals with non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). The researchers hypothesized that the improvement in mental health symptoms may be related to the reduction in systemic inflammation associated with the gluten-free diet.
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*This does not substitute medical advice or consultation. Please speak with your health care provider before testing.