Guide to Understanding the Difference Between Food Allergies and Food Intolerance

What is Food Intolerance?

Food intolerance refers to the difficulty your body may have in digesting certain foods. It doesn't involve the immune system, unlike food allergies. Instead, food intolerance typically arises from enzyme deficiencies, sensitivities to food additives, or other non-immune responses. 

Conditions such as gluten intolerance, lactose intolerance, and various specific intolerances fall under this category.

What Are Food Allergies?

Food allergies, conversely, are immune system reactions to specific proteins in the food. When a person with a food allergy consumes the allergen, their immune system perceives it as a threat and triggers an allergic response. Common allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, and, in some cases, gluten. So, let's see how food allergies interact with your immune system!

Food Allergies and Immune System Response - The Symptoms

When you eat something allergic to, your immune system gets alarmed. It releases an army of chemicals, including histamine, to fight off the "threat."

This sudden chemical surge can create havoc on your body. Find out what these symptoms are.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Digestive issues are one of the first heads up to food allergies.

• Diarrhoea 
• Constipation 
• Bloating and Gas
• Abdominal Pain
• Blood in Stools 

Food allergies can turn your digestive system into a battleground, and you see the consequences in your bowel movements.

Skin Reactions

• Hives
• Eczema (itchy, inflamed skin)
• Swelling of lips, face, tongue, or throat.

Respiratory Symptoms 

• Sneezing or runny nose
• Itchy or watery eyes
• Coughing or wheezing
• Shortness of breath
• Nasal congestion
• Sore or scratchy throat

Cardiovascular Symptoms

• A drop in blood pressure

Oral allergy Syndrome

• Itchy mouth, lips, or throat when eating certain raw fruits, vegetables, or nuts. These symptoms are often associated with pollen allergies.

Systemic Symptoms

• Anaphylaxis - A severe life-threatening reaction that can affect multiple body stems. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include difficulty in breathing, swelling of the throat, rapid or weak pulse, blood pressure fall, and loss of consciousness.

The severity of the following symptoms can change from person to person.

Note: The symptoms of food allergies typically occur shortly after consuming allergic food or a few hours after.

Even a tiny amount of allergen can trigger a reaction in susceptible individuals.

What Do the Symptoms of Food Intolerance Look Like?

A reaction to food intolerance is just a reaction of the body not being able to come to the idea of digesting the food item. The symptoms are less severe than those seen in food allergies. The symptoms typically occur when the body has difficulty digesting or processing certain foods or components within foods. 

The following symptoms can vary depending on the specific intolerance and the individual's sensitivity. 

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Bloating
• Diarrhoea
• Gas and flatulence
• Nausea

Headache

• Some individuals may experience headaches or migraines as a result of food intolerance

Skin Issues

• Itchy skin or eczema
• Rashes or hives

Fatigue 

• Food intolerances can lead to fatigue or a general feeling of tiredness

Joint Pain

• In some cases, joint pain or discomfort is associated with food intolerances.

Mood Changes

• Irritability
• Mood swings
• Anxiety or depression

Difficulty Concentrating

• Individuals with food intolerances sometimes report a feeling of mental fogginess or difficulty concentrating

Respiratory Symptoms

• Rarely, some food intolerances may cause mild respiratory symptoms like sneezing or a runny nose.

Changes in Bowel Habits

• Food intolerances can lead to fluctuations in bowel habits, including diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between the two.

Note: Food intolerances are less severe and do not involve the immune system. Problematic food intake may not immediately cause symptoms, and the connection between consumption and the onset time of symptoms is still unclear.

Intolerance to Specific Foods and Digestive Issues

Have you ever experienced digestive issues after eating certain foods? Well, some foods are notorious for causing discomfort and other unpleasant symptoms. Want to know which ones to watch out for? 

Here's a list of the usual suspects:

DAIRY: Dairy intolerance is a classic example of food intolerance. Lactose, the sugar in dairy, can be complex and challenging to digest for some people. Dairy intolerance symptoms include diarrhoea, gas, and bloating after you consume dairy products.

GLUTEN: Signs of gluten intolerance include loose stools, abdominal pain, and bloating when you consume gluten-containing grains such as wheat, barley and rye.

FODMAPs: Fermentable carbohydrates, known as FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols), can trigger some food sensitivity symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhoea.

ARTIFICIAL SWEETENERS: Sugar substitutes like sorbitol and mannitol can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and diarrhoea.

Managing Food Allergies and Intolerances

Are you tired of feeling restricted and limited by your food allergies and intolerances? Managing them can help you enjoy a healthy and fulfilling diet! 

Let's explore some tips and tricks to ensure you're getting the nutrients you need while avoiding the foods that make you feel unwell.

Solution 1: Identifying Your Trigger 

• Keep a food diary - Tracking what you eat and the symptoms you experience can help identify trigger foods.
• Elimination diet - It's best to eliminate suspected allergens and intolerant foods from your diet at a time, monitor your symptoms and gradually re-introduce them to pinpoint the culprits.

Solution 2: Make Reading Food Labels a Habit

• Ingredients lists - Scrutinise ingredient lists on packaged food. Look for common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, soy, dairy, gluten, and shellfish.
• Allergen statements - Consider allergen warnings or statements such as "contains" allergens. These are vital indicators for individuals with allergies.
• Cross-contamination - Be aware of the risk of cross-contamination, especially in shared kitchen facilities. Some labels may specify if a product has shared kitchen facilities. Some labels may specify if a product is processed in a facility that handles allergens.

Solution 3: Finding Your Combating Tricks

• Try Dietary Modifications - Avoiding trigger foods is the primary way to manage allergies and intolerances. Substitute safe alternatives to maintain a balanced diet.
• Consult a dietician - A registered dietician will help you choose a customised meal plan that meets your nutritional needs while avoiding problem foods.
• Try Medications - In some cases, anti, allergic drugs may be prescribed by your doctor.

Solution 4: Get Medical Professional Support

For diagnosis and treatment: It is essential to consult a healthcare professional who can differentiate between food allergy and food intolerance and give you the guidance you need. They can perform blood and skin prick tests to determine your diagnosis.

For Customised Management Plans: Healthcare experts can create a personalised program that fits your diagnosis and allergic symptoms. You cannot get that through internet-read information.

For Education and Support: The experts can educate you about your condition and provide emotional support and other sources if you are dealing with a severe food allergy.

When to Seek Immediate Treatment?

You must know when to stop trying your tricks to combat food allergies and intolerances and seek immediate treatment. Get immediate help if you face the following symptoms;

• Severe reactions - Reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling, or loss of consciousness need immediate professional attention.
• Persistent symptoms - Chronic digestive discomfort, skin rashes or recurring allergic reactions can lead to complications. So, make sure you visit your healthcare provider.

Incorporating Natural Anti-inflammatory and Immune-Modulating Foods 

Anti-inflammatory properties have made many herbs and spices valued staples in natural diets across cultures globally. Incorporating them into your diet will help relieve digestive issues naturally. 

Turmeric

According to Ayurveda, turmeric is the best anti-inflammatory herb that protects from reactions of an ant bite to severe respiratory allergic reactions. The best way to add turmeric to your life of food allergies and tolerances is to add it to your cooking. This can help you manage inflammation in your gut.

Ginger

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Use it in teas or as seasoning in dishes. Ginger, a traditional spice and medicine in Ayurveda, is consumed in various forms to boost immunity, reduce nausea and ease digestion. 

Cardamom

You can include this aromatic spice with anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antimicrobial properties in your diet as seasoning or by making tea.

Black cumin

Black cumin has been broadly used as a (skin) tonic, a digestive, an anti-diarrheal, an appetite stimulant, an anti-bacterial, and an analgesic. 

Probiotics 

Fermented foods contain beneficial probiotics that promote digestive health and strengthen the immune system.

Omega - 3 fatty acids 

Found in fatty fish like salmon and walnuts, omega-3s have anti-inflammatory effects and can support overall well-being.

Quercetin 

Foods like apples, onions, and berries are rich in quercetin, a natural anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating flavonoid.

Nirva Health's Expertise in Food Intolerances and Allergies

Nirva experts address digestive health concerns, including food allergies and intolerances. Our team of Ayurveda and yoga professionals provide comprehensive guidance and support for managing these conditions. 

“All diseases start in the gut, which is what the theories of Ayurveda talk resonate with.”

- Dr Isra Ismail, Senior Ayurveda Consultant at Nirva.

The team specialises in addressing digestive concerns, including food allergies and intolerances. 

What Does Nirva Offer? 

• Customised Dietary plans

Nirva experts analyse your body type called 'Prakriti' and the characteristics of your gut behaviour together in rhythm with the food allergies or food intolerances you may face before customising your diet plans.

• Lifestyle Coaching 

Nirva Health experts help you with the practical challenges of living with food allergies or intolerances.

• Ongoing support

Our health coaches will support you at every step and help you push through the journey of managing your conditions. Their guidance will help you alleviate symptoms and improve your overall quality of life. 

The Key Takeaway

Understanding these conditions is not just a matter of dietary preference; it's a critical aspect of your overall health and well-being. Mismanagement or misinterpretation of your symptoms can lead to unnecessary discomfort and potentially severe health consequences.

We strongly encourage anyone who suspects they have food allergies or intolerances to seek professional guidance.

Your digestive health matters, and understanding food allergies and intolerances is a significant step towards better well-being. With the proper knowledge, diagnosis, and guidance, you can easily manage these conditions and enjoy a life free from discomfort and health risks. 

Feel free to consult an expert for accurate diagnosis and expert support on your journey to digestive health.