Best Food Sensitivity Test (UK)

Food sensitivity testing is one of the most asked-about diagnostic services in the UK, particularly for people with persistent digestive symptoms, skin issues or unexplained fatigue. It is important to understand what the test does and does not show. This guide explains how the Chxhealth Food Sensitivity panel works and how to use the results responsibly.

What is a food sensitivity test?

The Chxhealth Food Sensitivity panel measures IgG antibody response to over 200 foods. IgG is a class of antibody your immune system produces in response to substances it has encountered, including foods.

Raised IgG to specific foods can indicate increased immune response to those foods. Many people find this useful as a starting point for a structured elimination and reintroduction diet, ideally under the guidance of a nutritionist or dietitian.

Food sensitivity vs food allergy

Food allergy is mediated by IgE antibodies (a different class). It causes acute reactions: hives, swelling, anaphylaxis. Allergy testing measures IgE.

Food sensitivity (as we measure it) is IgG-mediated. It does not cause acute allergic reactions. The reactions associated with raised IgG (where they exist) tend to be delayed and less specific: digestive symptoms, skin changes, fatigue.

If you suspect a true food allergy, do not use a food sensitivity test. Speak to your GP, who can refer you for allergy testing.

Chxhealth is a biomarker and genetic data provider. We do not diagnose, treat or prescribe. Our service supports your wellbeing journey alongside your healthcare professional.

How to use the results

Most people use the report as a starting point. Foods with the highest IgG response are typically eliminated for 4 to 8 weeks, then reintroduced one at a time while tracking symptoms.

Doing this with a registered dietitian or nutritionist is recommended, especially if multiple major food groups score high. Eliminating large groups of foods long-term without professional guidance can cause nutritional deficiencies.

Best Chxhealth panels for this

The Chxhealth panels below are designed for the markers discussed above. Each comes with a plain English PDF report, lab analysis by Randox (UKAS, ISO 15189), and the phlebotomy fee included in the price.

FAQs

Is the food sensitivity test the same as an allergy test?

No. The Food Sensitivity test measures IgG antibody response. Food allergy tests measure IgE antibody response. For suspected food allergies, see your GP for proper allergy assessment.

How long do results take?

Food Sensitivity results are typically delivered within 5 working days of the laboratory receiving your sample.

What should I do with the results?

Most people use them as a starting point for a structured elimination and reintroduction diet. We recommend doing this with a qualified dietitian or nutritionist to avoid nutritional gaps.

Will the test diagnose IBS or coeliac disease?

No. Chxhealth is a biomarker and genetic data provider. We do not diagnose, treat or prescribe. Our service supports your wellbeing journey alongside your healthcare professional. For suspected coeliac disease, specific antibody and biopsy testing is needed via your GP. For IBS, diagnosis is clinical and requires ruling out other conditions.

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About this guide. Educational content for general awareness. Chxhealth is a biomarker and genetic data provider. We do not diagnose, treat or prescribe. Our service supports your wellbeing journey alongside your healthcare professional. For medical advice about your health or results, please speak to a qualified clinician.