FAQs – Fitzwilliam Food Test Clinic
1. What is the Fitzwilliam Food Sensitivity Test?
We offer a specialised blood-test (finger-prick) that measures IgG antibodies against a range of foods. This is not a classic allergy (IgE) test, but rather a food sensitivity (or “intolerance”) test to identify foods that may be triggering inflammation and gut symptoms.
2. How is food sensitivity different from food allergy?
Food allergy involves an immediate immune response (IgE), which can cause rapid reactions like hives or breathing issues.
Food sensitivity/intolerance (what we test) involves IgG antibodies and tends to be more delayed; symptoms often relate to digestion, inflammation, or chronic gut issues.
3. What symptoms might suggest I need a food sensitivity test?
Common indicators include:
Bloating or indigestion
Irritable bowel symptoms (IBS-like)
Chronic gut irritability
Inflammation-related issues (e.g., headaches, fatigue)
Digestive discomfort that doesn’t respond to simple dietary changes
4. How does your testing process work?
Phone or email: the clinic and book a clinic appointment.
Order a kit: We send a test-kit directly to your address.
Collect sample: Use a small finger-prick to take a few drops of blood.
Send it back: Post the sample back to our lab for analysis.
Get results: We analyse IgG responses to individual foods and provide a personalised report.
Follow-up: We will advise on how best to implement the necessary dietary changes.
5. Is the test CE-marked / clinically accredited?
Yes — our food sensitivity test is CE-marked, and is used in over 200 laboratories internationally.
6. Can this test diagnose food allergies (e.g., life-threatening reactions)?
No. This test is not a substitute for classic allergy testing (IgE). If you suspect a true food allergy (especially with severe or anaphylactic reactions), you should consult your GP or an allergist.
7. Are food sensitivity tests like this reliable?
Our test is CE marked which means that it is a reliable way to measure how your immune system responds to foods.
8. How long do I need to wait for my results?
The laboratory analysis process takes approximately two weeks.
9. Do I need to prepare before taking the test?
Yes — some basic pre-test instructions help ensure sample quality. For example:
Avoid heavy exercise or dehydration just before sampling.
Follow any specific instructions included in your test kit.
(We provide these when you order your kit.)
10. How should I use my results to make dietary changes?
Your food test report will help guide you to make better dietary choices.
It’s often very helpful to work with a nutritionist experienced in food sensitivity to make sure your diet stays balanced and sustainable. Professional nutritionists can be found on www.ntoi.ie
11. Will I feel better if I eliminate reactive foods?
Most clients experience an improvement in their symptoms within 3 to 6 weeks. Most report improvements in gut symptoms, inflammation, energy, and general well-being when guided by their food test results. However:
If your symptoms fail to improve, it is essential that you get your doctor to investigate your symptoms further.
12. What if none of the foods in the test panel are reactive?
If your test doesn’t show any significantly elevated IgG antibody reactions, it means that this test is unlikely to assist you. In such cases, your medical team will have to re-assess your case.
13. Is this test safe?
Yes — the test is minimally invasive (finger prick), and the risk is very low. Most people tolerate it well.
14. Can I take the test if I’m on medication or have certain medical conditions?
In many cases, yes — but:
If you are immunocompromised, pregnant, or have bleeding disorders, check with your GP or a healthcare professional before testing.
Also, certain health conditions might influence how you interpret IgG results, so professional guidance is especially helpful.
15. How much does the test cost, and do you ship nationwide?
We ship our test kits nationwide in Ireland.
For the latest pricing, please check our “Shop” or “Order Test Kit” page on the website, as costs may vary.
16. Is the Fitzwilliam Food Test Clinic supported by health insurers?
Yes — we are supported by VHI Healthcare and Irish Life Health.
If you are covered by either, you may be able to claim part or all of the cost depending on your policy — check with your insurer for details.
17. Do you provide dietary support or guidance after the test?
Yes, if you go to “Test Details” on the navigation bar at the top of the page and click on “Food Test Aftercare”, you will get full details.
18. How do you protect my data and privacy?
Your blood sample is processed securely in our lab.
We handle all personal data under strict privacy protocols.
Reports are shared with you via secure channels.
If you have any specific concerns, feel free to contact us via our privacy / contact page.
19. How do I book an appointment or order a test?
You can book an in-person appointment with our clinic director, Martin Healy, at our Dublin 2 clinic.
Alternatively, order a food sensitivity test kit online — delivered to your door and posted back to our lab.
20. Do you have any scientific backing for your test?
Please follow the link to “Scientific Publications”.
