Do you experience uncomfortable symptoms after eating certain foods, but you're not sure if it's a sensitivity or a full-blown allergy? Many people struggle to distinguish between these two types of food reactions. This article breaks down the key differences between food allergies and intolerances.

What is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy is an abnormal reaction to a problem food that triggers a robust immune system response. When you consume an allergenic food, your body mistakenly identifies it as a dangerous invader.

This response involves the production of IgE antibodies. These antibodies bind to the allergen, releasing histamine and other chemicals that can cause rapid and potentially life-threatening reactions.

Symptoms of a Food Allergy

Common symptoms include:

• Skin: Hives, itching, swelling (angioedema)
• Respiratory: Wheezing, difficulty breathing, throat tightness
• Digestive: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal cramps
• Cardiovascular: Rapid heart rate, drop in blood pressure (anaphylaxis)

Overall, food allergies can range from mild to severe, with anaphylaxis being the most serious and potentially life-threatening reaction.

Causes of Food Allergies

Food allergies are caused by an overreaction of the immune system to a specific protein in a food. Common allergens include:

• Peanuts
• Tree nuts
• Shellfish
• Milk
• Eggs
• Wheat
• Soy

What is a Food Intolerance?

Unlike food allergies, food intolerances do not involve the immune system. They typically affect the digestive system and can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms.

Symptoms of a Food Intolerance

Common symptoms include:

• Digestive: Bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation
• Skin: Rashes, hives
• Headaches
• Fatigue

Causes of Food Intolerance

Food intolerances can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Lack of enzymes: For example, lactose intolerance is caused by a deficiency in the enzyme lactase, which is needed to digest lactose (the sugar in milk).
• Food additives: Some people may be sensitive to certain food additives, such as sulphites or artificial sweeteners.
• Histamine intolerance: Histamine is a chemical found in many foods, including wine and cheese. People with histamine intolerance have difficulty breaking down histamine, which can lead to symptoms such as headaches, flushing, and digestive problems.

   

  Some common trigger food groups include:
• Dairy: Milk, cheese, and yogurt
• Eggs: Especially egg whites
• Gluten: Found in wheat, rye, and barley, as well as in foods such as bread and pasta
  

Next steps:

If you suspect you have a food allergy or intolerance, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for assistance.

• Food allergy testing: May involve skin prick tests, blood tests, or an oral food challenge.
• Food intolerance testing: A comprehensive IgG food intolerance test followed by an exclusion diet (based on your unique results). Keeping a food diary to identify trigger foods can be a useful step to incorporate during this process of elimination.

Treatment

• Food allergy: The only treatment for a food allergy is to avoid the allergen completely.

• Food intolerance: Treatment for food intolerance involves identifying and avoiding trigger foods. In some cases, supplements or medications may be helpful.

Note: If you experience any severe symptoms after eating, seek medical attention immediately.

If you suspect you have a food sensitivity, our comprehensive food intolerance test can help to pinpoint potential trigger foods. More still, by placing an order with us you instantly qualify for a complimentary, bespoke consultation with a BANT registered nutritional therapist to help you to interpret your results.

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