Understanding Food Allergies and Intolerances and 4 Tips for managing them for optimal health

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Optimal health and wellness can be maintained partly by understanding the differences between food allergies and intolerances and learning how to manage them effectively.  Obtaining an accurate diagnosis and guidance from a credentialed healthcare professional and taking the necessary steps to avoid foods that trigger adverse reactions are key to successful management. 

Food allergies and intolerances have become quite common and are affecting millions of people throughout the world. Since some symptoms of food allergies and intolerances may be similar, it is significant to know the differences between the two conditions.

                                  


Food Allergies:

Food allergies occur when certain proteins contained in food are perceived by the immune system to be invading the body to cause harm. Some of the common food allergens are eggs, milk, wheat, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, and soy.  Individuals having an allergic reaction to these foods may experience symptoms and manifestations such as difficulty breathing, hives and rashes, swelling and anaphylaxis which is both severe and life threatening.

4 Tips for managing Food Allergies:

Following an accurate diagnosis for a suspected food allergy, one should adhere to the following steps:

1. Omission and strict avoidance of the identified food allergen(s).

2.  Continually read and review food labels to ensure that the identified allergen or allergens are not contained within the food product.

3. When eating out, ask about ingredients contained in the dishes and be very mindful of potential cross-contamination of foods both at home and when eating out.  Always ask and when in doubt, refrain from eating.

4.  For protection from accidental exposure to your identified food allergen(s)or from accidental ingestion, make sure to always carry an EpiPen (epinephrine auto-injector). 

                                  


Food Intolerances:

Common food intolerances include gluten intolerance (celiac disease), fructose intolerance and lactose intolerance. The immune system is not involved in food intolerances.  Rather, these intolerances occur in response to the body's lack of specific enzymes or chemicals needed for the digestion of specific foods.  Persons who are experiencing food intolerances may have symptoms such as abdominal pain, gas and feelings of bloating.

4 Tips for managing food intolerances:

1. Identify foods that trigger adverse reactions and omit them from the diet.

2. For Gluten intolerance: Adhere to a gluten-free diet.  Avoid intake of wheat, rye and barley.

3. For Fructose intolerance: Identify and reduce intake of those foods and beverages that are high in fructose (fruit sugar).

4. For Lactose intolerance: Avoid milk and foods containing lactose.  However, substitutes such as Lactaid can be used, or lactase supplements can be utilized to help in the digestion of lactose (milk sugar).


Lorna C. Hylledig  EDD., MSPH., RDN., LDN



Comments

  1. EJOctober 26, 2023 at 6:02 PM

    Great info on the difference between allergy and intolerances Dr. H. It's amazing how many people are dealing with this. I'm looking to take my wife to an allergist soon to get her tested for shellfish allergy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dr. Lorna HylledigOctober 26, 2023 at 6:13 PM

      Thank you for your comment EJ! Yes, many people are affected by this. We have to be particularly careful when introducing new solid foods to infants, toddlers and young children. It is usually advisable to introduce only one new food at a time to observe any adverse effects.

      Delete
  2. OpheliaNovember 2, 2023 at 4:32 PM

    Thank you for this. I became lactose intolerant in adulthood and it was difficult adjusting.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Meri SehatNovember 26, 2024 at 12:15 AM


    Food allergies and intolerances can be overwhelming to manage, especially when it comes to identifying triggers and maintaining a balanced diet. This article offers practical tips for handling these challenges effectively. For those seeking expert advice on managing such conditions, Dr Akhtar Memon provides valuable insights and personalized care. Understanding these issues deeply can truly improve one's quality of life. Thank you for highlighting such an important topic!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Meri SehatNovember 26, 2024 at 3:12 AM

    This is such an insightful post on understanding food allergies and intolerances! It's definitely a topic that many overlook until they experience symptoms. The 4 tips mentioned are practical and easy to follow for anyone struggling with food sensitivities. It's always great to find someone who understands these issues deeply and can guide us toward better management. For those seeking professional advice on such matters, consulting a general physician in Karachi could provide personalized care to ensure optimal health. Here's the link for more details: general physician in Karachi.

    ReplyDelete
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