The test is undertaken non-invasively, using an electronic machine that works on a principle of physics. You will need to hold a metal conductor in one hand, while having a metal pen pressed into a finger on the other hand. The machine works by measuring the body's resistance to each food as it is introduced, by way of a circuit. Any negative reading given by the machine would be noted. This is in a face to face environment and takes approximately 60 to 75 minutes depending on what comes up in your consultation. There are no skin-pricks or blood tests and it is completely painless. You will get your results upon completion of the test.
You will need to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment, as dehydration will negatively affect the ease of obtaining results. It is advisable to avoid tea, coffee and alcohol, as they are diuretics and will dehydrate you. If you don’t already drink two litres of water a day then you should start now. If you exercise or sweat heavily then your body’s requirement for water may increase, so two litres a day may not be enough for you. If the test is for a child, then the water intake should be adjusted down accordingly, and advice can be given on this if required.
What are Digestive Enzymes?
The role of digestive enzymes is to digest your food. The digestive system consists of many parts and each enzyme has its own role to play in the breakdown process. A lack of digestive enzymes may slow down the breakdown process and give undesirable side effects. Low enzymes may sometimes be the cause of food intolerance and also the by-product of it and may lead to a cycle of decreasing enzymes and increasing food intolerance.
How accurate is the test?
The test has been given an industry rating of 75%-80% accurate, which is very good for intolerance testing. There is currently no 100% accurate test anywhere worldwide. The factors that affect this are low hydration levels and the mismatch of specific enzymes used in the test vial. It is also possible that what you are intolerant to is not contained in the test kit. A full list of test items can be found on the 'What am I being tested for?' page.
This is not a medical test, nor does it form any medical diagnosis; it is a simple test used by a therapist to help pinpoint if foods are potentially causing a problem in your body. The Elimination Diet must be followed after the appointment/test and further information on this will be supplied.
Who CANNOT have the test?
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You cannot have the test if you have a pacemaker fitted. The test will not affect any other heart condition.
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While the test has been proven safe during pregnancy, I would rather ask you to wait until your baby arrives.
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If you are wearing a smartwatch, magnetic jewellery, kinetic watch or similar, you will be asked to remove it before the test, as it may interfere with the results.
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While the test is safe for children, it can be difficult for under fives to sit still long enough and follow instruction in order to complete the test. For this reason, please call to discuss the testing of any child under five before booking.