Last updated: March 2026
Understanding the difference
True IgE allergies can be life-threatening and often appear quickly — tests and supervised challenges matter.
Intolerances (like lactose) hinge on enzymes or fermentation — some have validated tests, many do not.
Sensitivities in everyday language often means delayed, dose-dependent symptoms — tracking tends to outperform broad antibody panels here.
What allergy tests can and cannot do
- Skin prick and specific IgE blood tests: helpful for classic allergy, not a full food-symptom map.
- IgG panels: marketed widely; interpret with skepticism per professional guidelines.
- Cost: panels add up; insurance coverage varies.
What tracking apps can do
- Connect meals to symptoms even when reactions lag 24–72 hours.
- Reflect real portions and mixed meals.
- Stay useful after the first month — triggers evolve.
Comparison table
| Feature | Allergy / lab testing | Sensio (tracking) |
|---|---|---|
| Detects classic IgE allergies | Strong for IgE | ✓ |
| Detects intolerances & sensitivities | Limited | ✓ |
| Delayed reactions (24–72 hr) | Poor | ✓ |
| Time to actionable insight | Days–weeks | 2–4 weeks typical |
| Ongoing monitoring | One-off | Continuous |
| Portion and context aware | ✕ | ✓ |
| Typical cost | $200–500+ panels | Free tier |
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Our recommendation
For acne, IBS, and eczema food mysteries, start with consistent tracking — it is low cost and models delay. If Sensio surfaces immediate, severe reactions (think anaphylaxis patterns), escalate to an allergist for formal IgE testing. The two approaches complement each other.
Frequently asked questions
Are IgG food panels accurate?
Major allergy societies caution against using IgG panels to diagnose food sensitivities; positives often reflect exposure, not pathology.
When should I see a doctor?
Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, widespread hives with systemic symptoms, or rapid-onset reactions after eating.
Can I do both testing and Sensio?
Yes — use tests for targeted IgE questions and Sensio for day-to-day correlation.
Why do tests miss my symptoms?
Many food-driven symptoms are delayed, dose-dependent, or cumulative — patterns standard allergy screens are not built to capture.