Understanding Lab Tests for Delayed Food Reaction
Written by Private MD Labs Medical Writing Team • Last Updated: September 8, 2025
Delayed food reactions, also known as food sensitivities, are immune responses that occur hours or even days after consuming certain foods. Unlike immediate food allergies, these reactions are difficult to identify without proper testing because of the significant time delay between consumption and symptom onset.
Recommended Test
Red Kidney Bean (f287) IgG
This test measures IgG antibodies specific to red kidney beans in your blood. Elevated levels may indicate a delayed immune reaction to this food. Since symptoms can appear hours or days after consumption, this testing helps identify red kidney beans as a potential trigger when dietary tracking alone proves insufficient.
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Why Blood Testing is Important for Food Sensitivities
Because delayed food reactions can take 2-72 hours to manifest symptoms, it becomes nearly impossible to identify trigger foods through diet observation alone. Blood tests measuring specific IgG antibodies can help identify which foods may be causing your body's delayed immune response, allowing for more targeted dietary modifications.
How IgG Testing Works
IgG (Immunoglobulin G) antibodies are produced by your immune system in response to foods it perceives as problematic. Elevated levels of food-specific IgG antibodies may indicate that your body is mounting an immune response to that particular food, potentially contributing to delayed symptoms such as digestive issues, headaches, fatigue, or skin problems.
Understanding Your Results
IgG food sensitivity testing provides valuable information about potential food triggers, but results should be interpreted alongside your symptoms and dietary history. Elevated IgG levels suggest your immune system is responding to specific foods, which may warrant temporary elimination from your diet followed by careful reintroduction under healthcare guidance.
Important Considerations
The information here is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Food sensitivity testing should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider who can help you develop an appropriate dietary management plan based on your individual results and symptoms.
