Shirley Pitman
BSY(Allergy Dip.), BSYA(Nutri.), AMANF
         
   


What is the Allergy Testing?
We seem to be suffering more and more from fatigue and general malaise.  Research has shown this is often linked to insensitivity to the foods we eat and the environment we live in.

In severe cases of allergic reaction patients are referred to specialists for treatment.  However there are often times when we just feel “under the weather” but do not feel bad enough to consult the Doctor.  For this reason people are turning to various methods of allergy testing.  From kinesiology to Vega-testing these methods show up insensitivities intolerances and allergic reactions sometimes not picked up in other ways.  These methods analyse your body’s reaction when introduced to a possible allergen, using biofeedback.

The simplest and possibly the most accurate of these is Vega testing.  It is a painless and unobtrusive method to test food and environmental substances that may be undermining one’s health on a daily basis.

What can the Allergy Testing treat?
Allergy testing is NOT a treatment. It is a method of diagnosing the cause of allergies and intolerances. These allergies and intolerances can be the root cause of many ailments, not just hayfever and skin rashes, They can major contributors in conditions from fatigue to migraine; aching joints to bowel problems.

Going for an Allergy Test
The appointment lasts approximately one hour. There are no needles, no blood is taken and there are no after effects of the testing.  More than fifty of the most common food allergens are tested along with airborne substances such as dust mite and pollen.  Finally you will also be tested for vitamin and mineral deficiencies, as many food intolerances impair the absorption of vitamins and minerals from our diet. You will then be given dietary advice and some information sheets to take away.

How many Allergy Tests will I need?
For most people only one appointment is necessary. You will be given advice on the foods to exclude from your diet. Occasionally a repeat test is suggested a few months later to see how the changes you are making are helping you.  This can be supported if required by other treatments through the North Lakes Clinic such as homeopathy or acupuncture, thus helping ensure the greatest benefit is achieved.

Once the problem is found some intolerances can be dealt with by simply excluding them for short period of a few weeks, where as others may require a drastic change to your diet.  Our aim is to help you with the transition.

Allergy Testing for children
Children of any age can be tested, though younger children (under 4 years find it hard to sit still long enough). Using the Vega method to test a child under this age it is necessary to first test the Parent/Guardian and then test the child with the parent holding him/her.

NB: Anyone with a heart pacemaker and women who are pregnant should not be tested due to the electronic nature of the equipment.

There are no side effects from the test. Sometimes an exclusion diet can initially cause a feeling of un-wellness.  This is normal and usually clears within a week or two, but it means that anyone with a health condition that might be seriously compromised by an exclusion diet should contact their GP first. For example those with diabetes should not exclude carbohydrates and sugars without medical advice

What will it all cost?
A full allergy test costs £40.00. Follow-up recheck tests are £20.00.