Food Allergy and Food Intolerance

Food allergies and food intolerances are two distinct conditions that can cause discomfort and other symptoms after consuming certain foods. While they share some similarities, there are important differences between the two.

Food Allergies:

Causes: Food allergies are caused by an immune system reaction to a specific food protein, such as those found in nuts, shellfish, and dairy.
Symptoms: Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe and may include hives, swelling, itching, vomiting, diarrhea, and anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis of a food allergy typically involves a combination of medical history, physical exam, and allergy testing, such as skin prick testing and blood tests.
Treatment: Treatment for food allergies involves avoiding the allergen and carrying emergency medication such as epinephrine to treat severe reactions.

Food Intolerances:

Causes: Food intolerances are caused by the body’s inability to properly digest or metabolize certain foods, such as lactose in dairy products, histamine in aged cheese, or fructose in fruits.
Symptoms: Symptoms of a food intolerance may include bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, gas, and nausea. They are generally less severe than those of a food allergy.
Diagnosis: Diagnosis of a food intolerance may involve keeping a food diary to identify trigger foods, elimination diets, and medical tests such as hydrogen breath tests and blood tests.
Treatment: Treatment for food intolerances involves avoiding trigger foods and using over-the-counter medications to manage symptoms.

In conclusion, food allergies and food intolerances are two distinct conditions that can cause discomfort and other symptoms after consuming certain foods. If you suspect you have a food allergy or intolerance, seek medical attention to identify the trigger and receive appropriate treatment. With proper management, many people with food allergies and intolerances are able to live normal, healthy lives.