Food intolerances and food allergies are more likely to occur at a younger age during the infancy or toddler age when the digestive and immune systems are not yet mature. The risk for these children developing an allergy is strongly influenced by genetics or familial history. The chance of a child developing an allergy is twice as great as those whose parents are not allergic.
What is the Difference between Food Intolerances and Food Allergies?
Food Allergies
Food allergies occur due to the body mistakenly believing a food substance is harmful when it is not. The immune system has developed a miraculous means of protecting the body from harmful material. This is done using antibodies made by the immune system. They are the immune system’s memory bank on harmful substances. The next time a particular food is eaten that the body finds harmful, large amounts of these antibodies (called IgE antibodies) as well as histamine, are released into the bloodstream adversely affecting the respiratory system, gastrointestinal system or the cardiovascular system.
Food Intolerances
A food intolerance is a reaction to food, however, does not affect or involve the immune system but will still instigate adverse reactions. It is where a group of foods which contain the same chemical irritates the body. These reactions are not life threatening. Symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, abdominal pain, belching, and gas may be experienced.
When it comes to food allergies and intolerances, the best protection against adverse symptoms and reactions is the avoidance of the offending foods. It is vital to diagnose whether the person has a food intolerance or allergy. In the case of a suspected food allergy, it is important to seek the advice of a medical doctor.
Food intolerances can be managed by a nutritionist or dietitian. This is important in order to ensure there is an adequate intake of nutrients. It is also important to seek professional advice as the restriction of unnecessary foods is not only inconvenient; it may also lead to an inadequate intake of important vitamins and minerals.
Managing food intolerances can sometimes by difficult and complicated. However, a health professional can give the correct advice and diet plan. An elimination diet is often given in order to perform a diagnosis.
Foods that the body is intolerant to and causes the above symptoms should be avoided. In some cases, the person is able to tolerate small amounts.
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