Ordering the Alcat 50 Functional Foods and Medicinal Herbs Sensitivity Panel
The Alcat 50 Functional Foods and Medicinal Herbs Sensitivity Panel helps identify how your immune system responds to 50 different plant-based foods and herbal ingredients. This test is especially useful for those who experience unexplained symptoms after eating or using herbal supplements. Interestingly, the Alcat test uses a unique method that measures changes in white blood cells when exposed to specific foods and herbs, which can reveal sensitivities that standard allergy tests may miss.
Ordering this test can provide you with specific information about which foods and herbs may be causing symptoms. Benefits of ordering include:
- Pinpointing sensitivities to both common and less common functional foods and medicinal herbs
- Supporting targeted dietary changes to help reduce symptoms like bloating, headaches, or skin issues
- Helping to identify hidden triggers that may be affecting digestion, mood, or energy
- Guiding choices for plant-based diets or herbal supplement use
- Offering a non-invasive way to explore immune reactions without the need for elimination diets
Who Should Consider Food and Herbal Sensitivity Testing
People who notice recurring symptoms such as joint pain, digestive discomfort, or skin problems after eating certain foods or using herbal products may benefit from this type of testing. For example, someone who has switched to a plant-based diet and started using herbal supplements but now experiences new symptoms like fatigue or headaches could use this test to find out if sensitivities are the cause.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Persistent bloating or stomach pain after meals, even with healthy foods
- Frequent migraines or mood swings that seem linked to diet or supplements
- Chronic skin issues like eczema that do not improve with standard treatments
- Unexplained weight gain or trouble losing weight despite dietary changes
- People who use herbal teas or supplements for stress relief and notice changes in energy or digestion
Testing for food and herbal sensitivities can help you make informed choices about what you eat and which supplements you use, leading to fewer symptoms and more predictable results. Delaying this test may mean continuing to experience symptoms without knowing the cause, which can make it harder to find relief.
Preparing for Plant-Based and Herbal Sensitivity Testing
Fasting is not required for the Alcat 50 Functional Foods and Medicinal Herbs Sensitivity Panel, so you can eat and drink as usual before your blood draw. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected and shipped correctly.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Alcat 50 Functional Foods and Medicinal Herbs Sensitivity Panel
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | High Levels Indicate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Functional Foods | |||
| Açai Berry | Non-reactive | Açai berry is tested to see if it triggers an immune response, which can cause symptoms like digestive upset or skin irritation. | High levels of reactivity may mean sensitivity, leading to symptoms after consumption. |
| Agave | Non-reactive | Agave is checked for immune cell changes that may signal intolerance, which can affect digestion or energy. | High levels of reactivity may suggest agave is a trigger for symptoms. |
| Aloe | Non-reactive | Aloe is tested to see if it causes immune cell changes, which can lead to digestive or skin symptoms. | High levels of reactivity may mean aloe is not well tolerated. |
| Barley Grass | Non-reactive | Barley grass is checked for immune response, which can cause bloating or joint pain if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may indicate barley grass sensitivity. |
| Bee Pollen | Non-reactive | Bee pollen is tested for immune cell changes that may cause headaches or skin issues. | High levels of reactivity may mean bee pollen is a trigger for symptoms. |
| Bilberry | Non-reactive | Bilberry is checked for immune response, which can affect digestion or skin if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may suggest bilberry sensitivity. |
| Black Walnut | Non-reactive | Black walnut is tested for immune cell changes that may cause digestive or skin symptoms. | High levels of reactivity may mean black walnut is not well tolerated. |
| Chlorella | Non-reactive | Chlorella is checked for immune response, which can cause bloating or fatigue if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may indicate chlorella sensitivity. |
| Goji Berry | Non-reactive | Goji berry is tested for immune cell changes that may cause headaches or digestive upset. | High levels of reactivity may mean goji berry is a trigger for symptoms. |
| Grape Seed Extract | Non-reactive | Grape seed extract is checked for immune response, which can affect digestion or skin if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may suggest grape seed extract sensitivity. |
| Guarana Seed | Non-reactive | Guarana seed is tested for immune cell changes that may cause headaches or mood changes. | High levels of reactivity may mean guarana seed is not well tolerated. |
| Gymnema | Non-reactive | Gymnema is checked for immune response, which can cause digestive or energy issues if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may indicate gymnema sensitivity. |
| Medicinal Herbs | |||
| Ashwagandha | Non-reactive | Ashwagandha is tested for immune cell changes that may cause mood or digestive symptoms. | High levels of reactivity may mean ashwagandha is a trigger for symptoms. |
| Astragalus | Non-reactive | Astragalus is checked for immune response, which can affect energy or digestion if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may suggest astragalus sensitivity. |
| Cascara | Non-reactive | Cascara is tested for immune cell changes that may cause digestive upset or headaches. | High levels of reactivity may mean cascara is not well tolerated. |
| Chondroitin | Non-reactive | Chondroitin is checked for immune response, which can cause joint pain or skin issues if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may indicate chondroitin sensitivity. |
| Dandelion Root | Non-reactive | Dandelion root is tested for immune cell changes that may cause digestive or skin symptoms. | High levels of reactivity may mean dandelion root is a trigger for symptoms. |
| Echinacea | Non-reactive | Echinacea is checked for immune response, which can affect energy or digestion if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may suggest echinacea sensitivity. |
| Elderberry | Non-reactive | Elderberry is tested for immune cell changes that may cause headaches or digestive upset. | High levels of reactivity may mean elderberry is not well tolerated. |
| Essiac | Non-reactive | Essiac is checked for immune response, which can cause digestive or skin issues if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may indicate essiac sensitivity. |
| Feverfew | Non-reactive | Feverfew is tested for immune cell changes that may cause headaches or mood changes. | High levels of reactivity may mean feverfew is a trigger for symptoms. |
| Ginkgo Biloba | Non-reactive | Ginkgo biloba is checked for immune response, which can affect energy or digestion if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may suggest ginkgo biloba sensitivity. |
| Glucosamine | Non-reactive | Glucosamine is tested for immune cell changes that may cause joint pain or skin issues. | High levels of reactivity may mean glucosamine is not well tolerated. |
| Milk Thistle | Non-reactive | Milk thistle is checked for immune response, which can cause digestive or skin issues if reactive. | High levels of reactivity may indicate milk thistle sensitivity. |
| Reishi Mushroom | Non-reactive | Reishi mushroom is tested for immune cell changes that may cause headaches or digestive upset. | High levels of reactivity may mean reishi mushroom is not well tolerated. |
Reference ranges may be updated from time to time based on new research or lab standards, so always check your report for the most current information.
Alcat 50 Functional Foods and Medicinal Herbs Sensitivity Panel FAQ
Is there Alcat 50 Functional Foods and Medicinal Herbs Sensitivity Panel testing near me?
This test is provided as a kit that can be collected at a local draw site; check the draw location link at the top of the page for options. For those experiencing symptoms like digestive upset or skin reactions, 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, you can also schedule a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team for a detailed explanation and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price listed for this test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but local draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you identify specific food or herb triggers, which may help you feel better sooner by making targeted changes.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months, especially if you change your diet or start new supplements, to track any changes in sensitivities and adjust your plan as needed.
How accurate is the test?
The Alcat test uses a flow cytometry-based method to measure changes in white blood cells when exposed to foods and herbs, 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.
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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