What’s the difference between Food Allergies and Food Intolerances?

Understanding Food Allergy vs. Food Intolerance: What's the Difference?

In today's health-conscious world, terms like food allergy, food intolerance, and food sensitivity are often used interchangeably. However, understanding the distinctions between them is crucial for managing dietary choices and overall well-being. Let's delve into the differences and implications of these conditions.

Food Allergy: A Matter of Immune Response

Definition and Mechanism: A food allergy involves the immune system. When someone with a food allergy consumes a trigger food, their immune system mistakenly identifies it as harmful and releases antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). This immune response can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe.

Common Symptoms:

• Hives or rash

• Swelling of the lips, face, or throat

• Difficulty breathing

• Anaphylaxis (a potentially life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention)

Common Allergens

• Peanuts

• Tree Nuts

• Shellfish

• Fish

• Eggs

• Milk

• Wheat

• Soy

Diagnosis and Management: Diagnosis typically involves skin prick tests, blood tests for specific IgE antibodies, and supervised food challenges. Managing a food allergy primarily means strict avoidance of the allergen and carrying emergency medication like epinephrine auto-injectors.

Food Intolerance: Digestive System Distress

Definition and Mechanism: Food intolerance (sometimes referred to as “food sensitivity”), on the other hand, does not involve the immune system. Instead, it usually arises when the digestive system cannot properly break down certain foods. This can be due to enzyme deficiencies, sensitivities to food additives, or reactions to naturally occurring chemicals in foods. Learn more about food sensitivities here.

Common Gastrointestinal Symptomes:

• Bloating

• Gas

• Diarrhea

• Stomach cramps

• Headaches

• Nausea

Other Symptoms and Conditions associated with Food Intolerances:

• Fatigue

• Brain fog

• Joint pain

• Eczema/ Atopic Dermatitis

• Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

• ADHD

• Migraine headache

Common Triggers:

Lactose (in dairy products)

Gluten (in wheat, barley, and rye)

FODMAPs (certain carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed). Learn more about FODMAPs here

Some naturally occurring compounds like amines, and salicylates. Learn more about where these can be found here

Diagnosis and management:

Diagnosing food intolerances can be challenging. It often involves tracking symptoms and dietary intake over time and sometimes using elimination diets. Testing for food intolerances can be ordered by some practitioners, which involves a blood test for IgG antibodies, though the reliability of these tests is debated.

Summary

• Immune System vs. Digestive System: Food allergies involve the immune system and can cause severe reactions, while food intolerances are related to digestive issues and are generally less severe.

• Reaction Time: Allergic reactions typically occur quickly, within minutes to a couple of hours. Intolerance and sensitivity reactions can take longer to manifest, sometimes even up to 48 hours.

• Severity: Food allergies can be life-threatening. Food intolerances and sensitivities, while uncomfortable and sometimes debilitating, are usually not life-threatening.

• Diagnosis: Food allergies are diagnosed through specific medical tests, while intolerances and sensitivities are often identified through dietary history and elimination diets.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.