Chemical Sensitivities

What are chemical sensitivities?

Chemicals in the foods we eat can increase our risk for chronic diseases, especially if we have an increased sensitivity to them.

Chemicals are often found in packaged and processed foods and beauty products. However, there are also chemicals found naturally in foods that can cause an inflammatory reaction in your body.

Common chemicals in foods that can trigger a negative reaction include:

• Solanine 
• Tyramine 
• Salicylates
• Artificial colors
• Preservatives

Dr. Feiwel offers a highly sensitive blood test to identify which chemicals are triggering an inflammatory response in your body. Testing can provide important details about your health and how your body reacts to certain foods.

When should I consider testing for chemical sensitivities?

You should schedule a consultation at the office of Nancy Feiwel, MD, if you have symptoms that relate to chemical sensitivities. These symptoms can include:

• Stomach pain, reflux, and indigestion
• Headaches
• Eczema
• Rashes or hives
• Body aches and pains
• Gastrointestinal dysfunction: diarrhea, bloating, gas, or constipation

While these symptoms are varied and non-specific, they are typical of chemical sensitivities as well as food sensitivity, allergy, or intolerance. The blood test offered at Dr. Nancy Feiwel’s practice will determine if symptoms are chemical-related, food-related, or both.

How do I manage chemical sensitivities?

If your blood test determines you have a chemical sensitivity, Dr. Feiwel creates a food plan to help you manage your health. She provides strategies to improve your diet and avoid contact with certain chemicals.

Dr. Feiwel can also recommend ways to improve your overall health to better manage any symptoms you experience because of chemical sensitivities. She may use strategies like:

• Nutritional counseling
• Daily exercise
• Stress management techniques
• Improved sleep habits

By understanding the chemical sensitivities you have and how they affect your health, you can learn how to make sustainable changes that support your digestive health and overall wellness.

Dr. Feiwel’s ongoing guidance also ensures you’re eating the right foods for your body, so you can maintain healthy body weight and reduce your risk for chronic disease in the long term.

Call the office of Nancy Feiwel, MD, to learn more about testing for chemical sensitivities, or book an appointment online today.