Understanding Your Food Triggers: A Genetic Perspective
Have you ever wondered why certain foods leave you feeling bloated, itchy, or fatigued, while others seem to have no effect at all? The answer may be hidden in your DNA. In a recent interview, Dr. Sam Shay sat down with Dr. Christina Fortuna, a researcher and product development leader in the field of genomics, to demystify how genetic testing—specifically the “Food Choice” profile—can help identify your unique food triggers.
What are “Food Triggers”?
When we talk about food triggers, we aren’t just talking about a simple list of allergies. It is an intentional, broader term that covers how different foods may be stressing your immune system or digestive process.
According to Dr. Fortuna, the “Food Choice” panel focuses on common dietary concerns supported by strong scientific evidence:
Gluten
Lactose
Alcohol
Caffeine
Salt
Histamines
Other Food Allergies
Genetics: Intolerance vs. Allergy
A common point of confusion is the difference between a food intolerance and a food allergy. Dr. Fortuna explains it through a genetic lens:
Food Intolerance: This is a metabolic issue. It occurs when you have a lower activity level of the specific enzyme needed to break down a substance (e.g., the lactase enzyme needed for lactose). Your body simply lacks the “tools” to digest it efficiently.
Food Allergy: This is an immune system response. Your body identifies a substance as a threat and mobilizes an immune attack. The genes associated with allergies are part of the immune system, not the digestive metabolism.
The Traffic Light System (Green, Yellow, Red)
Genetic profiles often use a “traffic light” system to denote your risk levels based on your genetic variants.
| Result | Meaning | Practical Takeaway |
| Green | Normal variant/Optimal function. | You have the genes required to process the substance efficiently. |
| Yellow | Heterozygous variant. | You have one “good” copy and one “variant” copy. Your function may be partially impacted. |
| Red | Homozygous variant. | You have two copies of the variant. This is usually associated with the highest risk or lowest enzyme expression. |
Note: While this system is helpful, Dr. Fortuna reminds us that these are predispositions, not diagnoses. Your subjective experience and environmental factors play a massive role in your actual health outcome.
Tackling Specific Triggers
1. Gluten and Celiac Disease
A genetic test for Celiac disease does not mean you have the condition; it highlights your risk. If you receive a positive result (yellow or red), it is a prompt to consult a professional for formal diagnostic testing. Dr. Fortuna clarifies that digestive enzymes are helpful for intolerances, but they do not help with the autoimmune nature of Celiac disease.
2. Alcohol
The alcohol profile is often the most confronting for patients. Green dots are sometimes associated with a higher risk of alcohol misuse because these individuals don’t feel the “negative feedback” (sickness/flushing) that tells them to stop. Conversely, those with red dots may experience immediate physical discomfort, which serves as a natural deterrent.
3. Caffeine
If you are sensitive to caffeine (yellow/red), you might feel anxious or jittery even after small amounts. Dr. Fortuna suggests that rather than trying to “buffer” caffeine with fats or oils, those with a sensitivity may benefit from seeking healthier, caffeine-free alternatives to maintain stable energy levels.
4. Histamines
Histamine intolerance happens when the body struggles to break down histamine once it has performed its function. Interestingly, caffeine can block the enzymes responsible for breaking down histamine. If you feel itchy or congested after coffee, it might not be the bean—it might be the caffeine stopping your body from clearing histamine!
Empowerment Through Knowledge
The most important takeaway from the discussion is that genetics are not your destiny. While you cannot change your DNA, you can use this information as a roadmap to optimize your lifestyle.
“Being aware of our genetic predispositions gives us the power to improve our well-being,” says Dr. Fortuna. By identifying your specific triggers, you can make targeted, proactive changes to your diet and lifestyle that reduce inflammation and help you feel your best.
Watch the Full Interview Below:
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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional regarding your health and genetic results.
