What is Almond Sensitivity?

Almond sensitivity is a type of tree nut intolerance that can cause digestive discomfort after consuming almonds. While not as serious as a tree nut allergy which can be life-threatening and lifelong as the immune system reacts to produce IgE antibodies, an almond sensitivity can impact your quality of life. Meal times can become a chore and the symptoms can be overwhelming and tiring.

It can be especially frustrating as almonds can be great for a balanced diet as they are full of great nutrients like fiber, protein, unsaturated fats and vitamin E. But the nut can prove problematic for some. Especially with the rise in almond consumption for sufferers of a lactose intolerance or gluten intolerance, almonds may seem like an easy swap but could actually add to their digestive issues.

What causes almond sensitivity?

Almond sensitivity can be caused by the digestive tract having difficulty digesting the nut. IgG antibodies react to the almonds, causing inflammation in the body that then can cause unwanted symptoms like bloating or cramps.

Almond sensitivity symptoms can also be discovered by those that are lactose intolerant or gluten intolerant. As you try to stay away from dairy products and glutinous flours, many turn to almonds as an easy alternative. Swapping out regular cow’s milk for almond milk, or eating pastries and breads made from almond flour may seem like great alternatives, however some find that their stomach troubles still do not go away.

With a food sensitivity test, you can use your results to conduct an elimination diet and know which foods you need to avoid and which will make for better swaps.

Testing for Almond Sensitivity

If you suspect that your symptoms are indeed tied to almonds, we recommend taking a food sensitivity test to determine whether almonds are truly to blame and what other ingredients could also be the culprit. At YorkTest, we analyze your IgG antibodies 1-4 through a finger prick blood sample collected onto an easy-to-use strip, one of the most accurate methods of testing. 

The blood test identifies over 200 ingredients to which you may have food sensitivities and ranks their severity in an easy-to-understand traffic light system. Once you have your results, our team can help guide you understand your food sensitivities, as well as advise on how to interpret your results in your everyday diet.