When it comes to adverse reactions to food, it's important to understand the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance. Though the terms are often used interchangeably, they involve distinct mechanisms and have different implications for our health. In this blog post, we will delve into the disparities between food allergies and food intolerances, helping you better comprehend these conditions and how they affect your body. Let's explore!

What is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy is an immune-mediated response triggered by specific proteins in certain foods. When an individual with a food allergy consumes an allergenic food, their immune system perceives it as a threat and releases immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies to fight against it. This immune response can cause immediate and potentially life-threatening symptoms, such as hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis.

Common Food Allergies:

1. Peanuts
2. Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)
3. Shellfish
4. Fish
5. Eggs
6. Milk
7. Wheat
8. Soy
9. Sesame
10. Mustard

Diagnosing Food Allergies: Food allergies are typically diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, skin prick tests, and blood tests. If you suspect you have a food allergy, it is crucial to consult with an allergist for accurate diagnosis and proper management.

Food Allergy Management: The primary management strategy for food allergies is strict avoidance of the allergenic food(s). Individuals with severe food allergies should carry an epinephrine auto-injector (e.g., EpiPen) in case of accidental exposure and anaphylactic reactions. It is essential to read food labels carefully, inform restaurants about your allergies, and be vigilant about cross-contamination.

What is a Food Intolerance?

Unlike food allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system. Food intolerances occur when the body lacks certain enzymes or mechanisms necessary to digest or process specific components in food. The most common food intolerances include lactose intolerance (inability to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk), gluten intolerance (celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity), and histamine intolerance.

Common Food Intolerances:

1. Lactose intolerance
2. Gluten intolerance
3. Histamine intolerance
4. Fructose malabsorption
5. FODMAP intolerance (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols)

Symptoms of Food Intolerance: Food intolerance symptoms may vary and usually manifest as digestive issues, such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation. Non-digestive symptoms like headaches, skin rashes, and fatigue can also occur. Unlike food allergies, food intolerances generally have a delayed onset and are not life-threatening.

Diagnosing Food Intolerances: Diagnosing food intolerances can be challenging as there is no specific diagnostic test like the ones used for allergies. It often involves a process of elimination, where specific foods are temporarily eliminated from the diet and then reintroduced to observe symptom patterns. Consultation with a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, can provide guidance and support in identifying food intolerances.

Food Intolerance Management: Managing food intolerances primarily involves avoiding or minimising consumption of the specific food(s) causing the intolerance. In some cases, enzyme supplements or dietary modifications may be recommended to alleviate symptoms. Working with a healthcare professional can help tailor an appropriate diet plan to meet your nutritional needs while avoiding trigger foods.

Distinguishing between food allergies and food intolerances is crucial for proper diagnosis, management, and overall well-being. While food allergies involve an immune response and can be life-threatening, food intolerances primarily involve difficulty digesting or processing certain components in food, resulting in digestive and other related symptoms.

If you suspect you have a food allergy or intolerance, why not purchase one of our home food intolerance tests today?