I forgot to mention that CAG also recommends something called an MRT, Mediator Release Test. It's supposed to measure the reaction of your white blood cells to different substances. I'm pretty sure this sort of test falls under 'quackery' by modern medicine's standards, but I like to spend lots of time on discussion boards to see if it's actually helped people or not.
Before I dive in, I should mention that this test is a whopping $400. Now, I have been told that other places charge $900 for such a thing, so I should count myself lucky. But still, I have car repairs, loans to pay off, etc. etc. Doesn't seem like that much of a bargain to me.
One web site says that: "MRT is a patented blood test (US Patent numbers 6, 114, 174 & 6, 200, 815) that quantifies how strongly your immune cells react to the foods and food chemicals tested by measuring intracellular mediator release indirectly. When released from immune cells, chemical mediators such as histamine, cytokines, and prostaglandins produce damaging effects on body tissues, leading to the development of symptoms."
The site Quackwatch, a site which probably supports nothing I've done, has a whole page devoted to crap allergy testing. They list the Mediator Release Test is inaccurate and that the "...correct way to assess a suspected food allergy or intolerance is to begin with a careful record of food intake and symptoms over a period of several weeks. Symptoms such as swollen lips or eyes, hives, or skin rash may be allergy-related, particularly if they occur within a few minutes (up to two hours) after eating. Diarrhea may be related to a food intolerance. Vague symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, or fatigue are unlikely to be food-related."
They go on to say that if you're not having luck this way, then maybe it's advisable to see an allergist and get a RAST test done. I really disagree with the statement that vague symptoms should basically be ignored and also that an allergist will be the ultimate help. I think some allergists are totally awesome (my DH would agree), but I went to see an allergist. After a negative skin-prick test for everything, she was as baffled as I was and told me to *surprise* keep a food diary.
This test seems popular with all the weirdos like me--chiropractors, people who are looking to treat fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome, etc. I have found more than a few Registered Dieticians who administer this test, which makes me wonder if it has more credence than some think.
In any case, I don't know if I'll get it done. I'm as confused as anyone about these tests. CAG swears by it and I do trust the CAG. I did appreciate one thing he said--he mentioned that I postpone appointments with him and set aside the money for the test. Not many practitioners would do that!
My GF is on week 2 of MRT. I'm a little sceptical as you get a blood test which gets sent off to a lab folllowed by a list of intolerances. Week one you have a limited diet and slowly introduce foods week by week. For your money I'd expect a follow up test or consultation during the process and as this doesn't occur it seems to me to be a little "Victorian travelling medicine man" for my liking. It requires a lot of self discipline and applies common sense principles. Now if she's happier and helps at all a placebo can be equally beneficial
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