PAMPY’S POST – JUL25a

Food Allergy Testing - made simple! 

I ordered my allergy-testing pack.  Returned a hair sample.  Here’s what I found.

What is allergy testing?

Allergy testing, especially for food allergies and sensitivities, can be beneficial for metabolism.  It helps identify and manage triggers that may disrupt digestion and affect weight loss. By understanding which foods cause allergic reactions, individuals can make informed dietary choices to reduce inflammation and improve their digestive health, ultimately having a positive impact on metabolism.

Aussies and Gluten

Growing up in the 70s and 80s, a typical nourishing day for me included a stack of Weet-Bix, Tip Top white bread and Vegemite, 2-3 muesli bars, more white bread and processed meat for lunch, a few Arrowroot biscuits, and crumbed protein for dinner. Then, beyond 18 years, I found rugby, cricket and beer.  Essentially, it was gluten on gluten.

Gluten is a protein found in barley, wheat, and rye, which can be difficult for some people to break down in the stomach and gastrointestinal tract. This can lead to irritation and inflammation. Thankfully, throughout my youth, it appeared that I had no obvious intolerance to gluten, such as celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

With further education in my mid-20s, I realised that it might be in my best interest to reduce my gluten intake. However, gluten is prevalent in many Aussie culinary choices and is integral to our way of life. Our modern industrial diet heavily relies on gluten.

Is there a cumulative effect of gluten consumption?

Like everything, if you overdo something or cross a threshold, it can influence your health. I've certainly noticed that those who consume a higher amount of gluten over time often experience a decline in metabolic efficiency, meaning their bodies tend to rely less on stored fat for energy.

I've encountered people who consume fewer total calories and exercise appropriately, yet struggle to lose unwanted weight. However, when gluten is removed from their diet—although this is not always easy—they often experience a shift in metabolism, allowing them to restore their ideal weight.

Allergy Testing Practicality

While I don't consume much gluten now, my test results indicated a (low) gluten intolerance. Perhaps I crossed a threshold in my youth. The test I took was non-invasive and straightforward. I purchased a $70 kit, sent in a hair sample, and received my results (via email) within three days, testing 1,400 food products. Note: While an onsite prick test is more comprehensive, it can be costly and inconvenient for many.

Mindset

Understanding my slight intolerance to gluten has made me more conscious of considering alternatives. This realisation acts as a prompt for me. I respond well to data.

I've ordered a batch of test kits for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of their metabolism. Of course, for more significant food intolerances, I strongly recommend consulting a physician.

Is your mitochondrial (aerobic) health strong?

Here's a quick and simple test!

When someone asks you if you are fit, they are typically referring to how effectively your body takes in, circulates, and utilises oxygen at a cellular level.

I just took a deep breath. The air we breathe contains about 21% oxygen, which is absorbed by my lungs and transported into my bloodstream. The oxygen is then delivered to my muscles, where it enters the cells. Inside these cells, a tiny but crucial organelle called mitochondria starts working to provide me with energy—much like a power generator. The healthier my mitochondria are, and the more of them I have per cell, the more energy I can produce. More energy generally leads to better performance.

While this process can be tested medically, there is also a simple test you can do on your own.

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🫁 1. Sit up straight

🫁 2. Take a long slow maximum inhalation via your nose 

🫁 3. Exhale slowly until you have nothing left

🫁 4. Start a stopwatch

🫁 5. When you need to take a breath (or blackout) stop your stopwatch

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