What Is The Meaning of This?

Food Intolerance vs Food Allergy, What's The Difference?

Food Intolerance

A "non-allergic" food hypersensitivity. There are various physiological responses associated with a specific food or substance in food that produces symptoms in one or more body organs and symptoms.

Causes of Food Intolerance:

* Absence of an enzyme needed to fully digest food
*Irritable bowel syndrome
*Food poisoning
*Sensitivity to food additives
*Recurring stress or psychological factors
*Celiac disease

 

Signs &Symptoms of Food Intolerance

Physiologically similar to food allergy, but does not include the immune system. Symptoms begin generally 30 minutes after eating the food allergen. Food reaction occurs within hours of ingestion.

Food Allergies

A true food allergy is an exaggerated immune response triggered by a specific food or substance that is harmless for most people. The food protein is the allergen. These kinds of allergens happen when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a protein as harmful. The immune system believes that it is under attack, sends white blood cells to attack, this triggers an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions range from mild to life threatening.

Signs & Symptoms of Food Allergy  

• Hives
• Itching or swelling
• Nausea
• Congestion or runny nose
• Wheezing 
• Abdominal pain
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• reactions within 30 minutes of ingestion

 Hypersensitivity

 

 

 

Disease Management

There is no cure for food allergy. If you have a food related reaction, see your doctor to diagnose whether you have food intolerance or food allergy. A diagnosis of adverse reactions to food is based on history, testing and response to treatment. Get the facts, learn about how to recognize a severe allergic reaction and what to do if one occurs.

 

 

 

Additional resources

The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network
Find more food allergy information and get free e-mail alerts about mislabeled foods. (800-929-4040)

MedicAlert If your child wears a MedicAlert bracelet, doctors will know his allergy history quickly in an emergency (888-633-4298)

Summary

Food allergies should be taken seriously, but a diagnosis doesn't mean disaster. If you develop a food allergy, talk with your doctor, learn how to read food labels, and follow precautions. And take heart in the fact that with some extra preparation, you can still happily and safely enjoy food.