YorkTest UK Review: At-Home Food Intolerance and Health Tests
Persistent symptoms such as bloating, fatigue or headaches have many possible causes. YorkTest UK sells at-home food intolerance (IgG) and health tests; this is what they measure and what they cannot tell you.
Health begins from within, and for many people, persistent symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, migraines, or skin problems can be due to undetected food intolerances. YorkTest UK enables people to take control of their well-being using reliable at-home health tests....
Introduction
Persistent symptoms such as bloating, fatigue, headaches or skin problems have many possible causes, and some people want to look at whether food plays a part. YorkTest UK sells at-home finger-prick blood tests, from food intolerance (IgG) tests to general health checks. YorkTest itself states that its food-specific IgG results “cannot be used to diagnose, treat or medically cure any specific food intolerances”, and that its tests are for information only and “not a substitute for professional medical advice”.
YorkTest says it has 40 years’ experience in food intolerance and food allergy testing.
Brand Mission
YorkTest describes its aim as helping people understand how they respond to different foods, so they can make more informed choices about diet and wellbeing.
The company says it puts customer focus, scientific credibility and practical advice at the heart of its approach.
Product Overview
Premium Food Intolerance Test
The Premium Food Intolerance Test measures IgG antibody reactions to more than 200 food and drink ingredients from a finger-prick blood sample. Results come as an online report, and an optional 30-minute consultation with a nutritional therapist is available. It is not a diagnostic test (see YorkTest’s own statement above).
Food and Drink Scan
An IgG-based test of reactions to common foods and drinks. Like YorkTest’s other IgG tests, it is not a diagnostic test; check YorkTest’s site for the current range.
Essential Health Check
This at-home finger-prick blood test measures 18 markers covering iron (ferritin), vitamin B12, vitamin D, liver function and cholesterol. YorkTest says it is for adults aged 18 and over and is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Highlights
40 years’ experience in food intolerance and allergy testing, according to YorkTest
Samples taken at home by finger prick and analysed in a laboratory
A range of tests, from food intolerance (IgG) to general health markers
Online results report, with an optional nutritional therapist consultation
Clear, results-based action plans
Separate tests for food intolerance (IgG) and food allergy (IgE)
Advantages
Sample taken at home and returned by post, with clear instructions
Tests over 200 foods and beverages with premium kits
Nutritional advice provides personalized guidance
Results online within 7 days, according to YorkTest
A junior food intolerance test for children aged 2–17
Intensive customer service
Disadvantages
Premium kits can be expensive for some users
Not a diagnostic test: YorkTest states its IgG results cannot diagnose, treat or cure a food intolerance
False-positive or inconclusive results are possible.
The results are based on IgG tests, which are controversial in some medical circles.
Blood collection may be difficult for sensitive users.
Customer Reviews
Customers often mention the straightforward process, from kit delivery to sample return, and the easy-to-read reports. Individual accounts of feeling better after changing diet are personal experiences, not evidence that the test works for everyone.
Some customers find the tests expensive compared with competing products.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between a food intolerance and a food allergy?
A: YorkTest’s food allergy test looks at IgE antibodies, which are involved in allergic reactions; its food intolerance tests measure IgG antibodies. YorkTest states that IgG results cannot be used to diagnose, treat or cure a food intolerance. Anyone who suspects a food allergy should speak to a doctor.
Q: Are YorkTest tests suitable for children?
A: YorkTest’s Junior Food Intolerance Test is for children aged 2–17 and checks IgG reactions to more than 100 food and drink ingredients.
Q: How long does it take to get results?
A: YorkTest says results are available online within 7 days of the lab receiving your sample.
Q: Do I need to fast before the test?
A: Requirements differ between the food tests and the health-marker tests, so follow the instructions for the specific kit you order.
Q: Are the results easy to understand?
A: Yes. Each test kit includes a detailed results report and the option of personalized nutrition counseling to help you interpret and apply the results.
Q: Is the test painful?
A: The finger-prick method may cause slight discomfort, but it’s quick and easy to perform thanks to the clear, step-by-step instructions.
Final Verdict
YorkTest UK offers a wide range of at-home finger-prick tests, from IgG food intolerance tests to vitamin, cholesterol and liver checks, with online reports and optional nutritional support. The IgG food tests are the part to approach with care: the company itself says the results cannot diagnose a food intolerance, and IgG testing is controversial in some medical circles.
The kits are easy to use but cost more than some alternatives. Anyone with persistent or unexplained symptoms should speak to a doctor before changing their diet based on any home test result.