The disparity between food antibody tests and mediator cytokine release tests is akin to comparing “idiot lights” in cars to gauges monitoring vehicle function.
Antibody tests, much like idiot lights, can be ambiguous indicators. Just as an idiot light may illuminate without necessarily signifying a significant issue in a vehicle, the presence of antibodies doesn’t always indicate an active disease or inflammatory process.
Brewers Yeast: Cyrex antibody negative vs MRT severely reactive 
Wheat: Genova antibody negative vs. MRT moderately reactive 
Spices: Genova Allergix negative vs MRT moderately reactive 
Food Additives and Chemicals: MRT Moderately Reactive 
Cheese, Meat & Beans: Genova Allergix negative vs. MRT moderately reactive 
Different tests measure different parts of the immune response. 
Cyrex and MRT are not the same food sensitivity tests. 
Millet: Cyrex negative vs. MRT Severely Reactive 
Cheese/Dairy: Cyrex negative vs. MRT Moderately Reactive 
Cyrex and Genova Allergix measure the same antibodies. 
Broccoli: Genova Allergix negative vs. MRT Moderately Reactive 
Apple: Genova Allergix negative vs. MRT Severely Reactive
The Mediator Release Test (MRT) is a groundbreaking blood test that provides insight into your body’s response to a wide range of 170 different foods and chemicals. Your blood sample is sent to Oxford Labs, where it undergoes analysis using a specialized machine. This machine exposes your blood cells to each freeze-dried food or chemical antigen, measuring the size of your white blood cells before and after exposure to determine your individualized response.
The test works by assessing the degree of shrinkage in your white blood cells post-exposure. The more they shrink, the greater the release of pro-inflammatory chemicals, indicating a stronger food sensitivity reaction. MRT provides a detailed understanding of how your cells react when exposed to specific foods or chemicals, offering valuable insights into your body’s responses.
On the other hand, the Mediator Release Test (MRT) functions more like gauges meticulously monitoring various aspects of vehicle performance. It provides a comprehensive view of your body’s reactions by measuring the release of inflammatory mediators, offering a deeper understanding of the underlying processes at play. This nuanced approach allows for more accurate insights into food sensitivities and inflammatory responses, akin to the precision provided by gauges in monitoring vehicle function.
What sets MRT apart from other food sensitivity tests is its comprehensive approach. Unlike many tests that focus solely on IgG antibodies, MRT captures all types of food sensitivity reactions, including type III and IV reactions, by indirectly measuring the release of inflammatory mediators. This comprehensive analysis ensures a more accurate understanding of your body’s responses.
Moreover, MRT is accompanied by a vital elimination diet protocol known as LEAP (Lifestyle Eating and Performance). Certified LEAP Therapists, such as our dietitian, are trained to interpret MRT results and guide patients through the LEAP elimination diet. This personalized approach goes beyond merely avoiding reactive foods, as our dietitian collaborates with you to design a tailored elimination diet based on your MRT results and functional nutrition assessment.
The LEAP protocol is implemented in phases over a 2 to 3 month period. Initially, you’ll consume approximately 30 of your least reactive “green” foods for two weeks. Many individuals experience a significant reduction in symptom frequency and severity during this phase. As you progress and start feeling better, foods are gradually reintroduced one at a time, with careful monitoring for any adverse reactions.
MRT isn’t just a test; it’s a personalized healing tool that considers your unique symptoms, immune system, genetics, and more. By providing individualized protocols based on MRT results, it aims to offer symptom relief and promote healing, making it an indispensable resource for personalized care.
