How to Properly Evaluate Food Allergies (Without Wasting Time & Money)
When it comes to food allergy diagnosis, one thing matters most: getting it right.
Too often, I see patients who’ve been told to avoid entire food groups just because of a “positive” test they found online. The result? Stress, unnecessary restrictions, and sometimes even malnutrition.
So how should you properly test for food allergies?
👉 By starting with a detailed history, guided by a board-certified Allergy & Immunology specialist.
Step 1: The Story Matters Most
Before any tests, your doctor will dig deep into your medical history. This is where the real detective work happens.
We ask questions like:
What symptoms did you have, and how soon after eating did they appear?
Was it a mild itch or a full-blown reaction?
Exactly what and how much did you eat?
Does it happen every time, or only sometimes?
Any other health factors at play?
This helps us figure out:
✅ Is this really a food allergy?
✅ If yes, what’s the most likely trigger?
Why Blood Tests Alone Don’t Tell the Full Story
A common misconception: “I’ll just do a blood test and know for sure.”
Here’s the truth about food allergy blood tests:
❌ False positives – You might test “positive” for foods you’ve eaten without any issue.
❌ False negatives – You could test “negative” and still have an allergy.
That’s why blood test results must be interpreted in context with your history.
The Problem with Allergy Panels
You’ve seen them: “Comprehensive Food Allergy Panels” that test you for 30, 50, even 200 foods at once. Sounds convenient, right?
🚫 Wrong. Without proper guidance and explanation, these panels causes confusion and anxiety.
And leads to unnecessary food restrictions.
Testing should be targeted, guided by your story – not by a shopping list of foods.
When Tests Are Helpful
Now, don’t get me wrong. Blood tests and skin prick tests do have their place.
They’re useful for:
Tracking allergy progression – IgE levels can show whether a child is outgrowing an allergy.
Supporting food challenges – The “gold standard” for confirming if someone is still allergic is an oral food challenge, done safely in a clinic.
Beware the IgG & IgG4 Trap
You may have seen ads for IgG or IgG4 food intolerance tests.
Let me be clear: these do not diagnose food allergies.
Here’s the science:
IgG responses are a normal immune reaction to food exposure.
There is no link between IgG levels and allergic reactions.
⚠️ Bottom line: Don’t waste your money. These tests are misleading at best.
The Right Way to Diagnose Food Allergies
If you’re worried about food allergies, here’s the safe and reliable path:
1️⃣ Book a consultation with a board-certified Allergy & Immunology specialist.
2️⃣ Share your detailed history (symptoms, timing, triggers).
3️⃣ We will recommend either skin prick or blood tests that are appropriate.
4️⃣ If necessary, complete a supervised oral food challenge.
Takeaway
Food allergy diagnosis isn’t about chasing every possible test. It’s about careful detective work, guided by expertise.
👉 Get it right, and you’ll avoid unnecessary restrictions while gaining peace of mind (and maybe keeping your favorite foods).
📅 Ready to get clarity? Book a consultation at The Allergy Immunology Clinic today.
