Advanced Food Allergy Care
in New York City
Personalized testing and desensitization with Dr. Atul Shah on the Upper East Side. Over 20 years of experience & 15,000+ Success Stories helping children, teens, & adults work towards Food Allergy Freedom.
Serving NYC, NJ, and CT from our Upper East Side office.
➤ Exclusive One on One Care with Dr. Atul Shah
➤ Advanced BAT testing only available at NYFA
➤ Personalized FATE™ Program: OFC, SLIT, OIT
How the FATE™ Program Works
The FATE™ Program begins with a detailed medical history, followed by the Basophil Activation Test. When needed, supervised Oral Food Challenges help clarify thresholds. Personalized SLIT or OIT treatments then support progress toward Bite Proof and the potential for Free Eating.
Looking for something specific? Use the menu below to navigate our homepage.
What our patients are saying...
About Dr. Atul Shah: Testimonials
Why Choose NYFA
for Food Allergy Care?
Results Where Others Fail:
The FATE™ Program offers hope where other treatments have let you down.
One on One Expertise
Direct care from Dr. Shah, a 20+ year leader in food allergy treatment and development.
Cutting-Edge Methods:
Tailored for Every Age:
Customized treatments for children, teens, & adults. It’s never too late.
Advanced Diagnostics:
As NYS’s only certified BAT clinic, we offer the highest standard of allergy testing.
15,000+ Success Stories:
Our results speak for themselves. 80+ documented video success stories.
5 Step FATE™ Program
The FATE™ Program (Food Allergy Tolerance Enhancement) is Dr. Shah’s personalized desensitization process designed for infants, children, teens, and adults. Each phase builds tolerance safely and gradually, guided by over 20 years of clinical expertise.
The FATE™ Program (Food Allergy Tolerance Enhancement) is Dr. Shah’s personalized desensitization process designed for infants, children, teens, and adults. Each phase builds tolerance safely and gradually.
Phase 1:
Patient History
Initial Consultation
and Allergy Assessment
The journey begins with an initial consultation. During this meeting, Dr. Atul Shah at NY Food Allergy & Wellness, will conduct a thorough assessment of the patient's medical history, dietary habits, and symptoms. This step is crucial for forming a preliminary understanding of the potential allergens and the severity of the various food allergy symptoms.
IgE Tests & BAT
Phase 2:
Basophil Activation Test
The Basophil Activation Test (BAT) is a blood test that measures the activation of basophils, a type of white blood cell, in response to specific allergens. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing food allergies.
Process: In BAT, basophils are isolated from a blood sample and exposed to potential allergens. If the patient is allergic to a specific substance, the basophils will activate, which is detected using flow cytometry.
Advantages: This test is highly sensitive and can help in cases where traditional skin or blood tests are inconclusive. It also poses minimal risk to the patient, as it is performed in vitro (outside the body).
NYAIRL & NYFA Connection: NYAIRL, associated with NY Food Allergy & Wellness (NYFA), is a leading research facility and the first and only laboratory in New York State with a CLIA-certified facility to offer BAT. This state-approved service places NYFAW at the forefront of allergy research and treatment, ensuring highly accurate and risk-minimized diagnostic services for food allergies.
Oral Food Challenges
Phase 3:
Oral Food Challenges
OFC is a medically supervised test to diagnose food allergies. It's considered the gold standard for allergy testing.
Process: During an OFC, the patient consumes gradually increasing amounts of the suspected allergenic food in a controlled setting. Medical staff monitor for any reaction.
Purpose: It's used to either confirm a food allergy diagnosis or to check if a patient has outgrown an allergy.
Safety: Given the risk of an allergic reaction, OFCs are always conducted in a clinical setting with emergency response capabilities.
Single, Multi-Food SLIT, OIT
Phase 4:
-
SLIT is a form of immunotherapy where the patient is given small doses of an allergen under the tongue to boost tolerance to the substance and reduce symptoms.
Process: The treatment involves administering gradually increasing amounts of the allergen in liquid or tablet form under the tongue. The patient holds it there for a few minutes before swallowing.
Purpose: SLIT is primarily used for treating allergic rhinitis and asthma, and it's being explored for food allergies. It's a convenient alternative to allergy shots, as it can be self-administered at home.
Duration: Treatment typically spans over a few years, with the initial phase of dose escalation followed by a maintenance phase.
-
OIT is a medical treatment for food allergies where the patient consumes small amounts of the allergenic food, with the amount gradually increased over time.
Process: The process begins with extremely low doses, followed by periodic and gradual increases, usually under strict medical supervision. This is continued until a maintenance dose is reached.
Objective: The goal of OIT is to desensitize the patient to the allergen, reducing the severity of reactions or helping them achieve tolerance.
Foods Treated: Commonly used for allergies to foods like peanuts, milk, eggs, and tree nuts.
xt goes here
Phase 5:
Bite Proof to Free Eating
Personal Plan & Comprehensive Approach
to Allergy Treatment
The best treatment for most food allergies, is a comprehensive approach that combines traditional methods with advanced therapies, nutritional guidance, and staying informed about new developments. Under Dr. Atul Shah's leadership, NY Food Allergy & Wellness represents the pinnacle of this approach, offering patients the most effective, personalized care.
In the fifth phase of FATE™, known as Bite Proof to Free Eating, patients are empowered to make decisions regarding the extent of their exposure to allergens. This approach acknowledges the individual's autonomy and comfort level in managing their food allergies. By gradually introducing allergens in a controlled environment, patients can build confidence and tolerance over time, ultimately aiming for freedom in their dietary choices. A personal plan, a personal choice.
This method fosters a sense of empowerment and independence in managing food allergies, aligning with the patient-centered philosophy of Dr. Atul Shah's leadership at NY Food Allergy & Wellness. By integrating Bite Proof to Free Eating into their comprehensive treatment approach, patients receive personalized care that prioritizes both safety and autonomy, leading to improved quality of life and peace of mind.
Peanut Allergy Success Story
Wheat Allergy Success Story
Ready to Speak With Our Care Team?
GET IN TOUCH
Have questions about testing or treatment? Send us a message and our care team will respond shortly.
Dr. Atul Shah, MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, is the founder of NY Food Allergy & Wellness and a renowned allergist with over 20 years of experience. With more than 15,000 success stories across children, teens, and adults, Dr. Shah’s expertise knows no age limits. He holds dual fellowships and has been honored with prestigious awards, including America’s Top Physician. Dr. Shah is a leader in allergy care, offering personalized, life-changing treatments for all ages.
Dr. Atul Shah:
Pioneering Food Allergy
Treatments in Manhattan.
Dr. Atul Shah: The Donna Drake Show
Dr. Atul Shah, MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, is the founder of NY Food Allergy & Wellness & a renowned allergist with over 20 years of experience. With more than 15,000 success stories across children, teens, & adults, Dr. Shah’s expertise knows no age limits. He holds dual fellowships & has been honored with prestigious awards, including America’s Top Physician. Dr. Shah is a leader in allergy care, offering personalized, life-changing treatments.
Expert Food Allergy Testing
on the Upper East Side
Basophil Activation Test (BAT)
At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, we are proud to offer the Basophil Activation Test (BAT), a cutting-edge diagnostic tool for identifying food allergies. This advanced test measures the activation of basophils, a type of white blood cell, in response to allergens. The BAT provides highly accurate results and can detect allergic reactions that might not be identified through traditional testing methods.
We are the only certified lab in the region offering the Basophil Activation Test. Our certification ensures that we maintain the highest standards of accuracy and reliability in our testing procedures. By choosing NY Food Allergy & Wellness for your allergy testing needs, you can be confident that you are receiving the most advanced and reliable diagnostics available.
The Basophil Activation Test is particularly useful for patients who have complex allergy profiles or who have not found answers through conventional tests. It can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing allergy treatments, providing valuable insights for personalized care plans.
Key benefits of the Basophil Activation Test include:
High Accuracy: Detects allergic reactions that may not be visible through skin prick or blood tests.
Comprehensive Analysis: Measures the specific activation of basophils, providing detailed information about allergic responses.
Certified Lab: Conducted in our certified lab, ensuring the highest standards of testing quality and reliability.
If you suspect you have a food allergy and need precise and reliable testing, the Basophil Activation Test at NY Food Allergy & Wellness is an excellent choice. Contact us today to learn more about this innovative test and to schedule your appointment.
Oral Food Challenges (OFC)
Oral Food Challenges are considered the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies. During an OFC, the patient consumes small amounts of the suspected allergen under strict medical supervision to observe any reactions. This method provides definitive results and is conducted with the utmost care and safety.
Expert Food Allergy Testing on the Upper East Side
Need Free Allergy Skin Tests
Skin prick tests are a quick and effective way to identify specific allergens. During the test, a small amount of allergen is placed on the skin, which is then gently pricked to allow the allergen to enter. Results are typically visible within 15–20 minutes, making it a fast and reliable option.
Needle-free tests are ideal for children and needle-phobic patients. Using advanced technology, these tests provide precise results without the discomfort associated with traditional testing methods.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are highly accurate and comprehensive, suitable for all age groups. They measure the presence of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which can indicate an allergy. This method is particularly useful for patients who cannot undergo skin testing.
IgE specific to peanut components are very helpful in accurate diagnosis of true peanut allergy compared to false positives due to underlying tree pollen allergy. Ara h 2 and Ara h 6 are considered components with potential for systemic reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best treatment for a food allergy?
The best treatment for a food allergy currently involves allergen avoidance and, in some cases, desensitization therapies such as Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT). These therapies aim to increase the patient's tolerance to the allergen over time. Source: American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI)
At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, Dr. Atul Shah specializes in OIT and SLIT, offering personalized treatment plans to help patients achieve “Food Allergy Freedom.” With over 15,000 success stories, our FATE™ program is designed to guide you to new beginnings.
What is the fastest way to get rid of food allergies?
There is no “fast” way to get rid of food allergies. The process of desensitization through treatments like OIT and SLIT can take months or even years, and these methods do not completely remove allergies but aim to safely increase tolerance. Source: Mayo Clinic
At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, we understand that managing food allergies requires patience and dedication. Our FATE™ program provides comprehensive support to help patients gradually desensitize to allergens, aiming for a life of freedom beyond avoidance.
Is anyone working on a cure for food allergies?
Yes, researchers are actively working on potential cures for food allergies. This includes clinical trials and studies exploring new treatments and therapies, such as monoclonal antibodies and vaccines. Source: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
While research continues, NY Food Allergy & Wellness is at the forefront of applying proven desensitization therapies today. Our commitment is to provide effective treatment options now while staying informed about tomorrow’s breakthroughs.
What over the counter medicine can I take for food allergy?
Over-the-counter antihistamines can help alleviate some mild symptoms of food allergies. Common options include diphenhydramine (Benadryl), loratadine (Claritin), and cetirizine (Zyrtec). Severe reactions require emergency care and epinephrine, not just antihistamines. Source: Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE)
NY Food Allergy & Wellness emphasizes that while antihistamines can manage mild symptoms, they are not a substitute for professional evaluation or structured treatment. Our FATE™ program offers a comprehensive approach to managing and desensitizing food allergies.
Severe Multi-Food Allergy Success Story








