Food Sensitivities in Children: Signs, Causes, and Solutions

Written by Dr. Aida Martinez, Naturopathic Doctor at Yoga Mamas

Have you ever wondered if your child’s diet could be affecting their health? It’s a more common concern than many parents realize. In my practice, I often meet children experiencing recurrent colds, ear infections, eczema, asthma, digestive issues, or even challenges like ADHD, autism, or headaches. One of the first conversations I have with their parents is about food sensitivities. Identifying and addressing these sensitivities can bring significant improvements to a child’s overall well-being.

Food Sensitivities vs. Food Allergies
A common misconception is equating food sensitivities with food allergies, but they are distinct. Many parents assume that a negative skin prick test for allergies means food isn’t contributing to their child’s health concerns. However, food sensitivities operate differently.

• Food allergies trigger an immediate immune response, often leading to swelling, hives, rashes, or in severe cases, anaphylaxis.
• Food sensitivities cause a delayed immune reaction, with symptoms like headaches or digestive discomfort appearing hours—or even days—after eating the trigger food.

Understanding this difference is essential for uncovering how diet might be affecting your child’s health.

The Impact of Food Sensitivities on Health
Identifying and addressing food sensitivities can lead to remarkable outcomes. For instance, one study showed a 70% reduction in symptoms for individuals who eliminated their trigger foods. Additionally, research suggests that children with ADHD may become more attentive and have better temperaments when common food allergens are removed from their diets.

How to Identify Food Sensitivities
If you suspect your child might have food sensitivities, there are two main approaches that Naturopathic Doctors use to pinpoint them:

1. Elimination Diet:
   This involves temporarily removing common food triggers—such as dairy, gluten, or eggs—for at least six weeks. Foods are then reintroduced one at a time to observe any return of symptoms. If a food causes a reaction during reintroduction, it’s likely a trigger and should be avoided.
2. IgG Food Sensitivity Testing:
   This blood test measures immune complexes formed in reaction to specific foods. For children, a simple finger prick test is often used, making it a more comfortable option.

Both methods have their advantages, and it’s important to work with a Naturopathic Doctor to determine which approach is best for your child.

The Benefits of Removing Trigger Foods
When food sensitivities are addressed, many parents notice improvements in their child’s immune system, skin health, digestion, and even behaviour. While it can be challenging to make dietary changes, the results are often well worth the effort.

If you’d like to explore how identifying and addressing food sensitivities could benefit your child, I’d be happy to help.

Book a visit with Dr. Aida to discuss your child’s health.