Peter Vincent

“Life’s Just More Comfortable Now”

52-year-old Programme Manager Peter Vincent had been dealing with reflux symptoms for over a decade. To manage them, he adopted a low-fat diet, avoided spicy foods, and even gave up coffee entirely. For years, he relied on omeprazole and peppermint oil capsules to keep symptoms at bay, but discomfort, bloating, and a constant tightness in his stomach persisted.

While Peter could still manage his routines, the symptoms were intrusive. He experienced frequent bloating and carried a general feeling of tension around his middle. His reflux had even led to a persistent cough, triggered by phlegm buildup (a classic sign of silent reflux). He hadn’t considered testing for food intolerances until an opportunity came through work.

A YorkTest test was offered as a discounted company benefit, and Peter decided to take one. He admitted he wasn’t even thinking about his reflux at the time, but that was about to change.

The test results identified cow’s milk as one of his trigger ingredients. Eliminating it from his diet proved challenging at first, as he soon realised how commonly it appeared in everyday foods. Thankfully, he found oat milk to be a suitable and enjoyable alternative, unlike some of his acquaintances who struggled with the switch.

It didn’t happen overnight, but within 4-5 weeks of eliminating cow’s milk, Peter began to feel the difference. His stomach felt more relaxed, and his reflux started to ease. After about 10 weeks, his symptoms had almost entirely vanished.

The cough stopped. The phlegm cleared. And daily life became significantly more comfortable.

He credits the nutritional consultation as a valuable part of the process, helping to ensure he was making the right dietary adjustments and supporting his health in the right way.

Peter continues to follow his new diet and says he has no intention of going back to cow’s milk. While his routine hasn’t changed dramatically, what has arguably changed the most is how he feels: better, more at ease, and no longer living with the burden of chronic reflux.

If you’ve been quietly managing symptoms like Peter, especially reflux or bloating, then YorkTest could help you get to the root cause. Try one of our at-home food intolerance or allergy tests and take the first step towards feeling more comfortable in your own skin today.