Food intolerance is a problem that affects many people, causing digestive symptoms and other discomforts. In recent years, a number of commercial tests have emerged that promise to identify problematic foods, such as ALCAT or the A200. But are they really reliable?
There are several tests that claim to detect food sensitivities. Most are based on the measurement of IgG antibodies, immune system proteins that are generated after exposure to certain foods. However, the presence of these antibodies does not always indicate an intolerance, but rather a recognition of the food by the body. It is therefore important to differentiate between real intolerances, allergies and non-specific sensitivities.
In recent years, these tests have gained popularity in pharmacies and other centres, driven by the search for quick explanations for difficult-to-diagnose digestive problems.
The ALCAT test (an acronym of antigen leukocyte cellular antibody test) is based on the premise that certain foods can cause changes in white blood cells, indicating a food sensitivity. This is done by testing a blood sample exposed to different food extracts and observing the reactions of the immune cells. However, the scientific community does not support this method, due to the lack of rigorous studies proving its efficacy³. The variability of results between different laboratories and the absence of a well-defined biological mechanism make the ALCAT test an unreliable tool for diagnosing food intolerances. Furthermore, the World Allergy Organisation and other medical institutions do not recommend it for the detection of these conditions.
The A200 test assesses the presence of IgG antibodies in the blood to various foods and is promoted as a tool to personalise diet and improve overall wellbeing. However, the production of IgG to foods is a normal phenomenon of the immune system and does not necessarily imply an intolerance. In fact, it does not necessarily imply an intolerance, Elevated IgG levels may indicate frequent exposure to a food rather than an adverse reaction.. Due to this lack of specificity, many allergy and nutrition experts consider the A200 test to be an unreliable method for diagnosing food intolerances and warn against its use without medical supervision. In addition, its application without scientific criteria may lead to unnecessary elimination of essential foods from the diet, which could lead to nutritional deficiencies and long-term health problems.
Commercial tests such as ALCAT and A200 are carried out on the basis of a blood sample, which is tested for cellular reactions or antibodies to foods. However, the scientific community doubts its validity, as the presence of IgG is a normal response of the body after food intake and does not necessarily imply intolerance.
There are several reasons why these tests are not considered reliable by experts:
There is no solid scientific evidence to support the efficacy of these tests for diagnosing food intolerances. Most studies that have attempted to validate these methods have methodological shortcomings or lack an adequate control group. Major medical societies, including the Spanish Society of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (SEAIC) and the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), have issued statements advising against their use.
Allergists and gastroenterologists do not use these tests in clinical practice because the results obtained are not reproducible or standardised. Instead, physicians rely on evidence-based tests such as controlled oral challenge tests, breath tests for specific carbohydrate intolerances, and genetic testing for well-defined conditions such as lactose intolerance.
Many of these tests are promoted as useful for treating a variety of conditions of different nature such as migraines, skin problems, chronic fatigue or even mood disorders. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. The presence of IgG antibodies in the blood does not indicate an intolerance, but a normal immune system response to food intake, which can lead to confusion and misdiagnosis.
One of the biggest risks of relying on these tests is that they can lead to unnecessary restrictive dieting. If a person eliminates numerous foods based on these results, without the supervision of a health professional, they may develop nutritional deficiencies, affect their gut microbiota and compromise their overall well-being. In addition, these restrictions can lead to food anxiety and may promote eating disorders in some cases.
If you suspect an intolerance, it is best to follow an appropriate medical procedure:
Validated methods exist to detect food intolerances:
Intolerance tests such as ALCAT and A200 lack scientific backing and can lead to unnecessary and potentially harmful dietary changes. If you suspect you have a food intolerance, it is essential to see a health professional for an accurate diagnosis based on reliable medical evidence. Don't be misled by unsubstantiated promises and always seek expert opinion.
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