Food as Medicine

Food Allergy vs. Sensitivity

Have you ever eaten a bowl of ice cream or wolfed down a sandwich, only to pay for it hours later? Maybe you blew it off thinking, “it's just an upset stomach” or perhaps you chalk it up to stress. But, when it happens day in and day out, you can't, and shouldn't ignore it. Food plays a vital role in the body. We need it for energy, good health and to survive. Proper nourishment is key, but what that means can be very individual to our bodies. One Valley expert understands this and actually uses food in his practice as medicine—medicine to treat symptoms such as stomach pains, headaches, irritability and fatigue.

Naturopathic physician Suneil Jain of Rejuvena Health and Aesthetics teaches patients the right foods to eat and the ones to avoid through his “Food as Medicine” program. Food allergies and intolerances seem to be on the rise, just check out the gluten-free isle of any grocery store. And, Dr. Jain agrees, “food sensitivities are far more common today than many people think.” 

Got Sugar?
The Average American
Eats 92 Grams
of Sugar Each Day
Source: Rejuvena Health and Aesthetics

According to Dr. Jain, food sensitivities, which include food intolerances, are toxic reactions to foods and can be very difficult to diagnose. Sensitivities occur when something in a food irritates a person's digestive system causing them to improperly digest or breakdown the food. Intolerance to gluten and pasteurized dairy are two of the most common food sensitivities.

But, his plan is simple, comprehensive and personalized to the patient. First, Dr. Jain begins with a blood analysis to determine underlying food sensitivities, of which you may not even know you have.

Through the food sensitivity test, your blood is measured against a diverse panel of foods, such as fruits and vegetables. This test is similar to a food allergy test, however, according to Dr. Jain, food sensitivities differ from allergies.

Food Sensitivities vs. Allergies:

-Reactions are delayed and not immediate or life threatening.

- A small amount of food may not provoke a noticeable reaction, but a large amount will.

- Symptoms can appear immediately or after three days.

- A person may be reactive to more than 25 foods and food chemicals.

- Even so-called “healthy” foods such as chicken, salmon, spinach, blueberries, apples or garlic can cause problems, if you have a sensitivity you don't know about.

Knowing the foods your body can tolerate, and omitting those your body is not properly digesting and metabolizing can result in fewer headaches, less bloating and more energy. It can also help you lose weight.

Prevent Food Intolerances:

-Learn which foods in which amounts cause symptoms, and limit your intake.

-When dining out, ask your server how the meals are prepared, which may not be evident on the menu.

-Read food labels and check ingredients for MSG and other additives that can cause symptoms.

Robyn Moore is a freelance writer in Phoenix. Rejuvena Health and Aesthetics specializes in wellness and anti-aging. For more information visit www.werejuvenate.com.

This article is for the sole purpose of providing information and is in no way intended to diagnose, offer medical advice or recommendations. All information included represents the view of the individual and not necessarily those of LiWi.

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