How I cope with food intolerance

My experience with food intolerance   

I have a food intolerance condition; no, I suffer from many types of food intolerance.   

For many years, I have learned to live with the many inconvenience and discomforts of food intolerance. The intestinal wind I sometimes get after eating is embarrasing, I get migraine every now and then and I suffer from acid reflux, which is an awful experience. There are more to add to my lists of problems but I would sound like a hypochondriac.  

I have seen the doctor, given anti acid tablets, advice not to talk and eat at the same time as it causes flatulence. I get temporary relief and then it will start all over again. Nobody tells me why I have all these reactions, I have learned to accept and live with these discomforts. 

A few years ago, someone who suffers from psoriasis told my husband that he had undergone a blood test which identifies the type of foods that make him sick. From the test, he was advised on the type of food he should avoid. Since then, he has followed the advice diligently and his psoriasis condition has improved. 

I have heard of many ‘what food is not good for what condition’ theories, I am sure there are truths in them. However, I also believe that other factors like our genetic makeup, our lifestyle and habits have an impact on our wellbeing.  

I decide to take the FoodScan 113 test to identify once and for all the foods I am intolerant to. 

I placed my order online for the test kit to be sent to my home. The home test kit consists of a blood collection kit with a finger prick lancet. There is a detailed instruction in the kit on how to take the test, a form to fill my details and a pre paid return envelope. 

It was easy, I followed the instruction and send the test kit off through the post. After 10 days, I received the results from the laboratory.The package consists of a list of my food intolerance which was graded 1, 2, 3 4 with 4 being highly reactive and 3 categories of action – Avoid, Rotate and No Reaction. The package also contain a booklet with information explaining the food intolerance, what type of food intolerance I have, a 12 week food diary and sensible tips. 

The FoodScan 113 test also provide essential support such as 2 free telephone consultations with a qualified nutritionist from the British Association of Nutritional Therapists and a one year free membership to Allergy UK. 

It was not easy to make the changes initially. I have to forgo the food that I like, such as bread, cakes, ice cream, pork, alcohol and more. I have to rotate my chilli intake which was difficult.  

However, the change pays off. After 3 days of following the regime, I could feel the difference. My body felt lighter, my stomach is not bloated and I have not had any acid reflux. My energy level have increased, I was feeling good. The bowel movement have also improved and my migraine has disappeared.  

It’s been 3 years since I did the FoodScan 113 test. I have changed my diet; life is more interesting now as I discover new cuisines, ingredients and recipes. I have lost weight healthily and most importantly, I know how and which food will make me sick. I am in control of my body and my health. 

Tips on coping with food intolerance