Food is supposed to sustain you. It does, in fact. But, not all food is safe for all people to eat. The best example of this is, of course, food allergy. But, did you know that a weaker “version” of this also exists in food intolerance?
Many people don’t realize that what they’re eating could be dangerous to them, in particular. The question is: is it a food allergy or food intolerance? Understanding both of them, and how they differ, is crucial!
Food allergy and food intolerance are two different conditions that can cause similar symptoms, but they are caused by different mechanisms in the body. A food allergy is when the immune system incorrectly identifies a food as a threat and activates an immune response, while a food intolerance is when the digestive system is unable to properly digest a certain food.
Both conditions can cause symptoms such as stomach upset, bloating, and diarrhea, but a food allergy can also cause more severe symptoms such as shortness of breath and anaphylaxis.
It is important to understand the difference between the two conditions in order to manage them properly.
What is a food allergy?
A food allergy is when you eat something your immune system (incorrectly) assumes is a threat or a danger. It activates the immune system, which is your body’s security guard. Your immune system will create a reaction to destroy the intruder (allergen). Since the reaction comes from your body’s immune system, you’ll feel the reaction throughout your whole body, including your organs. Common symptoms include:
- Itchy and running eyes
- Shortness of breath and tightening of the throat
- Feeling woozy or confused and disoriented
- Rapid heartbeat
- Rashes
A food allergy can be as mild as stomach upset, or as severe as passing out, or being unable to breathe (anaphylaxis). Even catching a whiff of an allergen can set off a reaction.
What is food intolerance?
In contrast to a food allergy, food intolerance is when you eat something your body cannot digest properly. In this case, your digestive tract doesn’t have the proper enzymes to digest the ingredients in the food, so the entire digestive schedule slows down as it works to break down the foreign food. You can still safely eat the food you are intolerant to, but it will range from mildly uncomfortable to extremely painful, requiring medical intervention. Common symptoms include:
- Stomach upset and “chattering”
- Bloating and feeling queasy
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Flatulence and burping
The severity of the intolerance reaction will often differ depending on how much of the food ingredient you eat, too, allowing more freedom in enjoying the problem food in smaller amounts, or less frequently.
How to figure out which I have
The safest way to know whether you’re dealing with a food allergy or food intolerance is to get a test done. Typically, you can get a food allergy test done through your general practitioner, but it is often easier to look at getting an at-home 45, instead. For instance, intolerancelab.co.uk promo codes give you cost-effective options for getting a food intolerance done at home, on your own schedule, with no need to go to a clinic or take medications, as is normally the case for an allergy test.
However, if you are having potentially life-threatening reactions to seemingly everything, a food allergy test may be the easiest and fastest choice to ensure that you protect your health. In this case, your need would be more focused on taking care of yourself rather than general information!
How to manage food allergies and food intolerances
Managing food allergies and food intolerances can be challenging, but it is essential to ensure that you maintain a healthy and safe diet. Here are some tips for managing both conditions:
- Keep a food diary: Keeping a food diary is a great way to track your symptoms and figure out what foods are causing them. It can also help you identify patterns in your reactions and make it easier to avoid certain foods.
- Learn to read food labels: Knowing how to read food labels can help you identify potential allergens and avoid them. Be sure to check for allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, and dairy.
- Be prepared: Always carry an EpiPen or other emergency medication if you have a severe food allergy. It’s also a good idea to wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace that identifies your allergy.
- Learn to cook: Cooking your meals at home allows you to control the ingredients and avoid potential allergens. It’s also a great way to save money and eat healthier.
- Seek professional help: If you are struggling to manage your food allergies or intolerances, seek the help of a dietitian or nutritionist. They can provide you with personalized recommendations and help you create a meal plan that works for you.
Common food allergens
There are several common food allergens that are known to cause reactions in people with food allergies. These include:
- Peanuts: Peanut allergies are among the most common food allergies and can cause severe reactions in some individuals.
- Tree nuts: Tree nut allergies are also common and can include almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, and more.
- Fish and shellfish: Fish and shellfish allergies can cause severe reactions in some individuals and should be avoided if you have an allergy.
- Dairy: Dairy allergies can cause symptoms such as stomach upset, hives, and difficulty breathing.
- Wheat and gluten: Wheat and gluten allergies can cause symptoms such as stomach upset, bloating, and diarrhea.
It’s important to note that these are just a few of the most common food allergens. There are many other foods that can cause allergic reactions, so it’s important to be aware of your individual triggers.
In conclusion
Food allergies and food intolerances are different conditions that require different management strategies. Understanding the difference between the two and knowing how to identify and manage them is crucial for maintaining a healthy and safe diet. Remember always to take food allergies and intolerances seriously and seek professional help if needed. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that you stay safe and healthy when it comes to your food choices.
