Jump to content
This site uses cookies. Continued use is acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. More Info... ×

  • Welcome to Celiac.com!

    You have found your celiac tribe! Join us and ask questions in our forum, share your story, and connect with others.



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A1):

    Celiac.com Sponsor (A1-M):

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Celiac.com!
    eNewsletter
    Donate

York, Enterolab, Or Great Smokie Mt. Which To Use?

kactuskandee

Recommended Posts

kactuskandee Apprentice
kactuskandee
Posted

I'm about to order the test kit for the full panel testing of food allergies, 113 foods or food groups for both York and Enterolab and 120 for Great Smokie Mountain.

Which one have you used or would use over the other? I can't see much difference in York and Enterolabs. Great Smokie Mt. I believe someone said, were more expensive, but I don't know exactly how much. You also need to go through a doc, which is no problem in my case. I know my insurance won't pick up on any of this so it will be private pay.

(I've already had the Celiac blood tests done through my GI doc and only the IgA gliadin antibodies were mildly elevated yet I'd been on a fairly strict wheat free diet, but not by any means gluten free, for many years. I was diagnosed wheat/chicken allergic over 25 years ago through RAST testing. Up until 2 years ago I lived on high doses of Benedryl but slowly weaned myself off it because it aggravated "Restless Leg Syndrome").

Thanks for any input you may have. These tests aren't cheap so I want to make the best choice I can, with your help.

Kandee

Link to comment
Share on other sites
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


Guest barbara3675
Guest barbara3675
Posted

I did the full panel Enterolab which includes gene testing and was very pleased with their professionalism. The kit came swiftly and the results came in a day less than two weeks via email. It showed that I carried the gene (which told us where my granddaughter got it from) and confirmed that I should not eat gluten or cow's milk products. The cost was close to $400, but my health is worth it. I can eat some cow's milk products now without too much problem, though, after being gluten-free since late summer. I would recomment Enterolab.

Barbara

Link to comment
Share on other sites
kactuskandee Apprentice
kactuskandee
  • Author
Posted

Thanks Barbara, I don't know why I was under the impression that Enterolab did the pin-prick blood test for food allergies like York, but checking back again I see they don't, only the stool tests. Since they are in the same town in FL (I think) I wonder if they are associated in any way.

I've read here complaints about York not getting back to you on results. Guess you just have to bug them.

I wish more would post who have gone thru Great Smokie Mts. for the testing. My Alt. M.D. swears by them and so would lean toward them for the tests, BUT I think they are much more expensive, but if more accuate than why not?

thanks for your response,

Kandee

Link to comment
Share on other sites
FaithInScienceToo Contributor
FaithInScienceToo
Posted

Enterolab is located in Texas - I just sent off my specimens this afternoon (stool and cheek cell samples) via pre-paid overnight DHL, which is all-included in the tests' costs.

Link to comment
Share on other sites
Melanie Rookie
Melanie
Posted

I think I found out somewhere that Great Smokie labs charged $525. I don't think I found it on the webpage, I think someone else said it was that much on another message board. They are a well repected lab. I would have went with them if I had the extra money. The next most reliable and accepted seems to be York labs. I just ordered my test from them and will post how it goes. I only heard one person really say they were delayed and such. One lady wasn't happy with the results because she didn't believe her husband was allergic to some items he tested positive for. Those are the only negative comments I remember. Most people here use Enterolab but there is a lot of conflict about whether using stool samples is reliable, accurate and representative. I'm not sure why so many pick enterolab. Good luck with your decision. I was/am pretty confused about which on is the best lab.

Link to comment
Share on other sites
kactuskandee Apprentice
kactuskandee
  • Author
Posted

I think one of the reasons Great Smokie Mt. is so expensive it because they include the RAST IgE test as well. I discovered that after looking into what their tests included.

Since I've already had the RAST IgE test lately I don't need to spend the extra money when I just want the IgG ELISA food tests. So, I think I will go with York. I don't know about he validity of stool vs. blood for testing for food intolerances, but the entire notion of sending blood instead of stool is easier to take, at least for me.

Thanks,

Kandee

Link to comment
Share on other sites
Melanie Rookie
Melanie
Posted

Hey Kandee,

I got my kit from York and it took like 1.5 weeks to get here. It wasn't hard to do and I sent it off. I hope I hear from them soon. Just wanted to let you know no problems so far.

What is IgE RAST?

melanie

Link to comment
Share on other sites
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):
Celiac.com Sponsor (A8):

Celiac.com Sponsor (A8-M):


kactuskandee Apprentice
kactuskandee
  • Author
Posted

Hi Melanie,

Please post how long it took to get your test results from York, and I might add, what they were. Glad to hear it was no big deal taking the test. I didn't think it would be...probably much the way a diabetic tests their blood sugar.

The IgE RAST test, tests only a few top known allergen foods (10 or 12, can't remember exactly) and it is for a food ALLERGY, the kind that you get a reaction to right now, and likely will send you to the nearest ER with anaphylactic shock. I had a RAST test 27 years ago when I was sick as a dog and full of hives. Bedridden I ate only chicken soup with soda crackers (isn't that what everyone ate when they were sick?) and it turned out I was highly allergic to wheat and chicken. Ended up a few times in ER before I knew the culprits. The IgG is for all those, what..113 foods or food group INTOLERANCES..with a delayed reaction. That's the one I'm interested in now.

Kandee

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Archived

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

Go to topic listing

  • Get Celiac.com Updates:
    Support Celiac.com:
    Join eNewsletter
    Donate
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A17):
    Celiac.com Sponsor (A17):



    Celiac.com Sponsors (A17-M):



  • Recent Activity

    1. trents
      - trents replied to Fluka66's topic in Celiac Disease Pre-Diagnosis, Testing & Symptoms
      5

      Waiting for urgent referral.

      But if you have been off of wheat for a period of weeks/months leading up to the testing it will likely turn out to be negative for celiac disease, even if you actually have celiac disease. Given your symptoms when consuming gluten, we certainly understand your reluctance to undergo the "gluten challenge" before testing but you need to understand that the...
    2. Zackery Brian
      - Zackery Brian replied to rsvtwin6's topic in Food Intolerance & Leaky Gut
      6

      Gluten and 30 other Items causing me Severe Muscle Inflamation Pain

      I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you've been facing with your health. Dealing with celiac disease and multiple food sensitivities can indeed be overwhelming. Here are a few thoughts and suggestions based on your experience and the replies you've received: Confirming Diagnosis: It's great that your gastroenterologist confirmed your celiac disease...
    3. Fluka66
      - Fluka66 replied to Fluka66's topic in Celiac Disease Pre-Diagnosis, Testing & Symptoms
      5

      Waiting for urgent referral.

      Thank you very much for your reply. I hadn't heard of celiac disease but began to notice a pattern of pain. I've been on the floor more than once with agonising pain but this was always put down to another abdominal problem consequently I've been on a roundabout of backwards and forwards with another consultant for many years. I originally questioned this...
    4. Moodiefoodie
      - Moodiefoodie replied to Moodiefoodie's topic in Related Issues & Disorders
      9

      Joint swelling when ill even on gluten-free diet

      Wow! Fascinating info. Thanks so much! I really appreciate the guidance. @Spacepanther Over the years I have had rheumatologists do full lab work ups on me. They told me they had screened me for arthritis, lupus, and Lyme disease (all negative). In addition to joint pain and stiffness I had swelling in both knees that later moved to my elbow as well. I also...
    5. knitty kitty
      - knitty kitty replied to Moodiefoodie's topic in Related Issues & Disorders
      9

      Joint swelling when ill even on gluten-free diet

      @Spacepanther, I found these articles about the connection between Celiac and joint pain. Musculoskeletal Complications of Celiac Disease: A Case-Based Review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10201087/ And Intestinal microbiome composition and its relation to joint pain and inflammation https://www.ncbi.nlm...
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A19):


  • Member Statistics

    • Total Members
      121,063
    • Most Online (within 30 mins)
      7,748
    Nacina
    Newest Member
    Nacina
    Joined
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A20):

  • Forum Statistics

    • Total Topics
      120.3k
    • Total Posts
      1m
  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A22):



  • Celiac.com Sponsor (A21):


  • Upcoming Events

  • Posts

    • trents
      Waiting for urgent referral.

      By trents · Posted

      But if you have been off of wheat for a period of weeks/months leading up to the testing it will likely turn out to be negative for celiac disease, even if you actually have celiac disease. Given your symptoms when consuming gluten, we certainly understand your reluctance to undergo  the "gluten challenge" before testing but you need to understand that the testing may be a waste of time if you don't. What are you going to do if it is negative for celiac disease? Are you going to go back to merrily eating wheat/barley/rye products while living in pain and destroying your health? You will be in a conundrum. Do I or do I not? And you will likely have a difficult time being consistent with your diet. Celiac disease causes inflammation to the small bowel villous lining when gluten containing grains are consumed. This inflammation produces certain antibodies that can be detected in the blood after they reach a certain level, which takes weeks or months after the onset of the disease. If gluten is stopped or drastically reduced, the inflammation begins to decrease and so do the antibodies. Before long, their low levels are not detectable by testing and the antibody blood tests done for diagnosing celiac disease will be negative. Over time, this inflammation wears down the billions of microscopic, finger-like projections that make up the lining and form the nutrient absorbing layer of the small bowel where all the nutrition in our food is absorbed. As the villi bet worn down, vitamin and mineral deficiencies typically develop because absorption is compromised. An endoscopy with biopsy of the small bowel lining to microscopically examine this damage is usually the second stage of celiac disease diagnosis. However, when people cut out gluten or cut back on it significantly ahead of time before the biopsy is done, the villous lining has already experienced some healing and the microscopic examination may be negative or inconclusive. I'm not trying to tell you what to do I just want you to understand what the consequences of going gluten free ahead of testing are as far as test results go so that you will either not waste your time in having the tests done or will be prepared for negative test results and the impact that will have on your dietary decisions. And, who are these "consultants" you keep talking about and what are their qualifications? You are in the unenviable position that many who joint this forum have found themselves in. Namely, having begun a gluten free diet before getting a proper diagnosis but unwilling to enter into the gluten challenge for valid testing because of the severity of the symptoms it would cause them.
    • Zackery Brian
      Gluten and 30 other Items causing me Severe Muscle Inflamation Pain

      By Zackery Brian · Posted

      I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you've been facing with your health. Dealing with celiac disease and multiple food sensitivities can indeed be overwhelming. Here are a few thoughts and suggestions based on your experience and the replies you've received: Confirming Diagnosis: It's great that your gastroenterologist confirmed your celiac disease diagnosis through additional tests. Understanding the specifics of your condition can help tailor your approach to managing it more effectively. Food Sensitivity Testing: While blood tests for food sensitivities can provide some insights, they may not always be completely accurate. As mentioned by others, false positives are common, and individual responses to specific foods can vary. Discussing your test results and symptoms with a healthcare professional knowledgeable about celiac disease and food sensitivities can help clarify your situation. Research and Education: Exploring conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and histamine intolerance could shed further light on your symptoms and provide additional avenues for managing your health. Gathering information from reliable sources and discussing your findings with your healthcare team can help you make informed decisions about your care. Dietary Management: Managing celiac disease and multiple food sensitivities can be challenging, but finding a balance that works for you is crucial. Working with a dietitian who specializes in celiac disease and food intolerances can help you develop a personalized dietary plan that meets your nutritional needs while minimizing symptoms. Stress Management: Chronic pain and health issues can take a toll on mental and emotional well-being. Finding healthy coping strategies to manage stress, such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, or engaging in activities you enjoy, may help improve your overall quality of life. Remember, you're not alone in your journey, and seeking support from healthcare professionals, support groups, or online communities can provide valuable encouragement and guidance.
    • Fluka66
      Waiting for urgent referral.

      By Fluka66 · Posted

      Thank you very much for your reply. I hadn't heard of celiac disease but began to notice a pattern of pain. I've been on the floor more than once with agonising pain but this was always put down to another abdominal problem consequently I've been on a roundabout of backwards and forwards with another consultant for many years. I originally questioned this diagnosis but was assured it was the reason for my pain. Many years later the consultant gave up and I had a new GP. I started to cut out certain food types ,reading packets then really started to cut out wheat and went lactose free. After a month I reintroduced these in one meal and ended screaming in agony the tearing and bloating pain. With this info and a swollen lymph node in my neck I went back to the GP.  I have a referral now . I have also found out that acidic food is causing the terrible pain . My thoughts are this is irritating any ulcers. I'm hoping that after a decade the outlook isn't all bad. My blood test came back with a high marker but I didn't catch what it was. My GP and I have agreed that I won't go back on wheat just for the test due to the pain , my swollen lymph node and blood test results.  Trying to remain calm for the referral and perhaps needed to be more forceful all those years ago but I'm not assertive and consultants can be overwhelming. Many thanks for your reply . Wishing you all the best.
    • Moodiefoodie
      Joint swelling when ill even on gluten-free diet

      By Moodiefoodie · Posted

      Wow! Fascinating info. Thanks so much! I really appreciate the guidance. @Spacepanther Over the years I have had rheumatologists do full lab work ups on me. They told me they had screened me for arthritis, lupus, and Lyme disease (all negative). In addition to joint pain and stiffness I had swelling in both knees that later moved to my elbow as well.  I also experience stiffness and pain in my neck and shoulders when it flares. I vomited fairly often growing up, but there wasn’t a real pattern to it and I didn’t know it wasn’t normal (thought people caught stomach viruses often).  I don’t usually have stomach symptoms immediately after eating gluten that I notice.  The only other joint condition I know of is fibromyalgia. Good luck! Hope you can get it figured out. I only assumed my joint symptoms were due to the celiac’s because it is under control for the most part on a gluten-free diet.  The rheumatologist also mentioned that some inflammatory/autoimmune diseases can be slow-moving and not detectable until they progress.
    • knitty kitty
      Joint swelling when ill even on gluten-free diet

      By knitty kitty · Posted

      @Spacepanther, I found these articles about the connection between Celiac and joint pain. Musculoskeletal Complications of Celiac Disease: A Case-Based Review https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10201087/ And   Intestinal microbiome composition and its relation to joint pain and inflammation https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6814863/ And The gut microbiome-joint connection: implications in osteoarthritis https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6903327/ Sounds like it's time to change the diet to change the microbiome.
×
×
  • Create New...