How to Identify Food Sensitivities: Elimination Diets vs Testing

In this video, I explain the two main approaches used to identify food sensitivities: elimination diets and food sensitivity testing. If you’ve ever wondered how to actually figure out which foods are contributing to your symptoms—without guesswork or unnecessary restriction—this video will help you understand when each approach may be helpful.

The elimination diet is often considered the gold standard for identifying food sensitivities. It involves temporarily removing common trigger foods, then carefully reintroducing them one at a time while monitoring symptoms. This approach is highly individualized, doesn’t require lab testing, and can be especially helpful for delayed reactions that occur 24–72 hours after eating.

Food sensitivity testing is another tool that can sometimes provide clarity, particularly when symptoms are complex or unclear. Most panels measure IgG and/or IgA immune responses to foods and can help guide where to start. These tests do not diagnose disease and should always be interpreted thoughtfully and in context.

It’s important to understand that when many foods appear reactive on a test, this often reflects gut inflammation or intestinal permeability—not permanent intolerance to all of those foods. Results can change over time as the gut heals, and the goal is not lifelong restriction.

Elimination diets and food sensitivity testing are not appropriate for everyone. If you are pregnant, have a history of eating disorders, are experiencing unintentional weight loss or malnutrition, or have complex medical conditions, it’s important to work with a qualified healthcare provider.

In the next video, we’ll talk about what it really means when someone gets results showing dozens of food sensitivities—and how to approach healing without panic or over-restriction.

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This video is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace medical care. Always consult with your personal healthcare provider before making dietary changes or pursuing elimination diets or testing.