Finding your trigger foods feels like solving a mystery where you’re both the detective and the case study. The good news? With the right approach, patterns become surprisingly clear.
The Timing Factor
Symptoms don’t always appear immediately. Some reactions happen within 30 minutes, others take 24-72 hours. This is why consistent tracking matters more than perfect tracking.
Keep notes on how you feel 2-4 hours after eating AND the next morning. Delayed reactions are super common!
The Usual Suspects
- Gluten and wheat products
- Dairy (especially milk and soft cheese)
- Eggs
- Soy
- Corn
- Garlic and onions
- Artificial sweeteners
- Alcohol and caffeine
The Single-Variable Test
When testing a potential trigger, try to keep everything else consistent. Eat it on a calm day, not when you’re stressed or tired. This helps you get clearer answers.
And remember: a food that bothers you today might be fine after your gut heals. Triggers can change over time.
