Food intolerances are common contributors to chronic digestive discomfort, yet they are often misunderstood and under‑diagnosed. Unlike food allergies, which involve immediate immune responses, intolerances typically produce delayed symptoms such as bloating, gas, headaches or fatigue hours after eating. Recognising the pattern and timing of symptoms is the first step toward accurate identification and management. Epidemiological estimates suggest that up to one in five adults report some form of food‑related intolerance. Clinical assessment commonly combines a detailed history, symptom diaries and targeted tests. Laboratory approaches vary: hydrogen breath tests are used for lactose and fructose malabsorption, serologic testing can screen for celiac disease, and comprehensive microbiome analyses are emerging as tools to characterise gut microbial patterns associated with sensitivity to specific foods. For an accessible overview of testing options and context, see [InnerBuddies food intolerance testing guide](https://www.innerbuddies.com/blogs/gut-health/food-intolerance-testing-your-path-to-digestive-comfort). Objective testing is most useful when it complements systematic dietary investigation. The elimination‑and‑rechallenge protocol remains a practical diagnostic standard: suspected foods are removed for a controlled period, symptoms are monitored, and foods are reintroduced one at a time to observe reproducible effects. This method reduces false attributions that can arise from casual avoidance or coincidence. Clinicians often combine elimination diets with validated symptom scoring and, when indicated, objective tests to improve diagnostic confidence. Understanding the gut microbiome can add diagnostic nuance. Differences in microbial composition and metabolic function have been associated with food sensitivities and symptoms such as IBS‑like pain and bloating. Peer institutions and research collaborations are advancing indices and interpretation frameworks; for examples of applied studies and outcome reporting see the test results summary at InnerBuddies personalized ingredient advice study and clinical guidance on fermentable carbohydrates at The FODMAP diet: a beginner's guide. Management strategies emphasise symptom control while maintaining nutritional adequacy. When a trigger is identified, selective avoidance or reduction—rather than broad dietary restriction—helps preserve variety and micronutrient intake. Substitutions (for example, lactose‑free dairy or gluten‑free grains when indicated) can maintain dietary balance. Probiotics and dietary fibre adjustments may modify symptoms in some individuals, but evidence is strain‑ and context‑dependent; therapeutic decisions should be based on clinical evaluation and current evidence. Professional oversight matters. Dietitians and clinicians can help select appropriate tests, interpret results, design reintroduction schedules and ensure nutritional needs are met during elimination periods. They can also help distinguish intolerances from other conditions with overlapping symptoms, such as inflammatory bowel disease or functional disorders. For those interested in deeper microbiome assessment or commercial testing options, further information can be found at microbiome test product page. Whether using symptom‑based protocols, breath testing or microbiome analysis, a systematic, evidence‑informed approach reduces uncertainty and supports practical dietary changes that improve daily comfort without unnecessary restriction.