Understanding Food Allergies and Intolerances

By Divya Jain

Details: -- BSc Human Nutrition and Dietetics.

Published: May 16, 2024 13:54

Food allergies and intolerances are increasingly common, affecting millions of people worldwide. Understanding the differences between these conditions, their symptoms, and how to manage them is essential for maintaining good health and preventing serious reactions. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of food allergies and intolerances, ensuring you make informed dietary choices.

A food allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food protein as a threat and launches an attack. This can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild to severe.

Common Symptoms
Skin reactions: Hives, itching, eczema
Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
Respiratory issues: Wheezing, nasal congestion, shortness of breath
Anaphylaxis: A severe, potentially life-threatening reaction that includes difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and a drop in blood pressure
Common Food Allergens
Milk
Eggs
Peanuts
Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, cashews)
Soy
Wheat
Fish
Shellfish (e.g., shrimp, crab, lobster)

Food Intolerances: An Overview
Food intolerances involve the digestive system rather than the immune system. They occur when the body has difficulty digesting certain foods, leading to uncomfortable symptoms.

Common Symptoms
Gastrointestinal issues: Bloating, gas, diarrhea, stomach cramps
Headaches or migraines
Fatigue
Common Food Intolerances
Lactose: Inability to digest lactose, the sugar in milk and dairy products
Gluten: Sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye (not to be confused with celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder)
Histamines: Found in aged cheeses, fermented foods, and certain alcoholic beverages
Food additives: Such as sulfites, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and artificial colors
Diagnosing Food Allergies and Intolerances
Proper diagnosis is crucial for managing these conditions effectively. Here are common methods used by healthcare professionals:

Diagnosing Food Allergies
Skin prick test: Small amounts of potential allergens are applied to the skin to see if a reaction occurs.
Blood tests: Measure the immune system's response to certain foods by checking the level of IgE antibodies.
Oral food challenge: Performed under medical supervision, this involves consuming small amounts of the suspected allergen to observe for reactions.
Diagnosing Food Intolerances
Elimination diet: Removing suspected foods from the diet and then gradually reintroducing them to identify triggers.
Hydrogen breath test: Used primarily to diagnose lactose intolerance, it measures hydrogen levels in the breath after consuming lactose.
Symptom tracking: Keeping a detailed food diary to correlate intake with symptoms.
Managing Food Allergies and Intolerances
Effective management involves avoiding triggers and being prepared for accidental exposure.

Managing Food Allergies
Strict avoidance: Read food labels carefully and inquire about ingredients when eating out.
Emergency action plan: Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector if prescribed, and know how to use it.
Education: Educate family, friends, and caregivers about the allergy and what to do in case of a reaction.
Managing Food Intolerances
Diet modification: Identify and avoid trigger foods. Substitute with alternatives that do not cause symptoms.
Enzyme supplements: For lactose intolerance, lactase enzyme supplements can help digest lactose.
Gradual reintroduction: In some cases, small amounts of the trigger food can be reintroduced gradually under medical supervision to build tolerance.

Understanding food allergies and intolerances is vital for maintaining health and well-being. While food allergies involve the immune system and can cause severe reactions, food intolerances primarily affect digestion and lead to discomfort. Proper diagnosis and management strategies, including avoidance of trigger foods and preparedness for emergencies, are essential. By staying informed and vigilant, individuals can lead healthy lives despite their dietary restrictions.