INTRODUCTION
Food allergies and intolerances are becoming more prevalent in the world. While once considered to be rare, an estimated six million Americans have a food allergy. And approximately thirty-six million Americans suffer from a food intolerance of some kind. Food allergies and intolerances can cause symptoms ranging from mild discomfort to life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis and to know more about Allergies you can read our blog on Food Allergies in Infants and Children In this article, we’ll take a look at how these conditions affect your body, and what you can do if you have one.
WHAT IS INTOLERANCE:
People who have food intolerances or sensitivities have difficulty digesting a particular food. These symptoms include intestinal gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
It is sometimes mistaken for a food allergy when a food intolerance exists. Food intolerances typically affect the digestive system. A food allergy affects the immune system. Food allergies can cause life-threatening reactions even if a microscopic amount of the food is consumed.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FOOD ALLERGIES AND INTOLERANCE:
It is possible for food allergies to occur even when only a small amount of the specific food is consumed. Affected individuals should avoid the offending foods completely. Contrary to this, food intolerances are often dose-related; individuals may not experience symptoms unless they consume a large amount of the food frequently. People with lactose intolerance, by way of example, might be able to drink only one glass of milk, but they might become ill if they drink several glasses. Similarly, food allergies and intolerances differ from food poisoning, which occurs when food is stale or contaminated, and usually occurs in a group of people. An allergist can determine if you have a food intolerance or allergy, and develop a treatment plan that helps control your symptoms.
FOOD INTOLERANCE SYMPTOMS:
Symptoms of food intolerance include:
Nausea
Stomach pain
Gas, cramps or bloating
Vomiting
Heartburn
Diarrhea
Headaches
Irritability or nervousness
HOW TO DEAL WITH FOOD ALLERGIES AND INTOLERANCE:
To treat a food allergy or intolerance, the most straightforward solution is to eliminate the offending food/s from the diet. Food intolerances can sometimes be treated by avoiding the food for a brief while, then reintroducing it in small doses.
Consult a specialist doctor and dietitian before eliminating or reintroducing foods.
WHERE TO GET HELP?:
There are a number of different ways to manage your allergies, but finding the right solution is dependent on your symptoms and medical history. We encourage you to talk to a professional at Columbia Allergy today to learn more about how we can help you find relief from allergies.
