Ordering the Alcat 250 Food Panel
The Alcat 250 Food Panel helps identify immune cell reactions to 250 common foods, which can be linked to symptoms like bloating, headaches, skin rashes, and digestive discomfort. Interestingly, this test uses a unique method that measures changes in white blood cell size and volume after exposure to specific foods, providing a direct look at cellular responses rather than just antibody levels.
Ordering this test can help you pinpoint which foods may be causing unwanted symptoms, guide dietary changes, and support your healthcare provider in creating a targeted plan. Specific benefits of ordering include:
- Identifies delayed food sensitivities that may not show up on standard allergy tests
- Helps reduce symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and digestive issues by removing reactive foods
- Supports management of chronic conditions linked to food sensitivities, such as migraines or eczema
- Provides a comprehensive report covering 250 foods, including less common items
- Offers a free 30-minute consultation with an Alcat specialist to review your results
Who Should Consider Food Sensitivity Testing
People who experience ongoing symptoms like stomach pain, skin problems, or headaches after eating may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has tried multiple diets but still feels tired and bloated after meals could use this test to find out if certain foods are causing their symptoms.
Ordering may also be helpful in these situations:
- Frequent headaches or migraines that do not improve with medication
- Chronic skin rashes or hives with no clear cause
- Digestive problems such as constipation or diarrhea that persist despite dietary changes
- Joint pain or swelling that seems to flare up after eating
- Unexplained mood swings or brain fog that may be linked to food reactions
Pinpointing food sensitivities can help reduce symptoms like bloating, skin irritation, and joint pain by removing problem foods from your diet. Delaying this test may mean continued discomfort and missed opportunities to address symptoms that could be improved with dietary changes.
How to Prepare for Food Reaction Testing
Fasting is not required for the Alcat 250 Food Panel, but it is recommended to avoid medicines or supplements for at least four hours before your blood draw. Always follow any instructions or recommendations provided by your doctor or healthcare provider to ensure the best possible results from your test.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Alcat 250 Food Panel
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | High Levels Mean |
|---|---|---|---|
| 250 Foods See the full list of markers here |
Non-reactive, Mild, Moderate, Severe | This test measures how your white blood cells react to 250 different foods, showing which foods may trigger immune responses. Results help identify foods that could be causing symptoms like bloating, headaches, or skin issues. | High levels of reactivity mean your immune cells strongly respond to that food, which may lead to symptoms if you eat it. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as the lab updates its testing methods or as new research becomes available.
Alcat 250 Food Panel FAQ
Is there Alcat 250 Food Panel testing near me?
This is a test kit that can be collected at a local draw site; check the draw location link at the top of the page. For those dealing with ongoing symptoms like digestive discomfort or skin issues, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested quickly and start finding answers.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should help you interpret your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand your report and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price listed for the test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, though draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you quickly identify food triggers, which may speed up relief from symptoms like bloating or headaches.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months, especially if you have made significant changes to your diet or if symptoms return. Regular testing helps track changes in food sensitivities and supports ongoing symptom management.
How accurate is the test?
The Alcat 250 Food Panel uses a flow cytometry-based method to measure changes in white blood cell size and volume after exposure to foods, with a specificity of 86% and sensitivity of 83%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- The lab suggests NOT taking any medicines or supplements for at least four hours before getting your blood drawn. Consult your treating physicain before discontinuing and medications. Make sure you are hydrated before taking this test.
- The minimum age for testing is 6 months and the minimum weight is 16 pounds.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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