Intolerance Can Apply to Foods

Food allergies have been discussed, but what about food intolerance? Food intolerance does not involve our immune system. Lactose intolerance is the first thing that comes to mind. Our bodies are not capable, or have difficulty, breaking down or digesting the food molecules associated with a specific food group. Many food intolerances are caused by the additives put into foods to extend their shelf life. The most common food intolerances are caused by:

Lactose
Tyramine
Preservatives
Additives
Gluten

The symptoms of food intolerance are similar, many times, to food allergies. A food allergy comes on suddenly – usually being triggered by a small amount of food. It happens every time you eat a specific food. Allergies can be life-threatening.

Food intolerance symptoms typically come on more gradually – and, usually, when you eat a lot of food. Food intolerance is not life-threatening. Both food allergies and food intolerances can produce similar symptoms:

Nausea
Stomach pain
Diarrhea
Vomiting

Food intolerance happens when you can’t properly digest that specific food. As a result, you might have:

Gas
Cramps
Bloating
Heartburn
Headaches
Irritability
Nervousness

A food allergy is systemic in nature – our immune system is responding properly. We might have:

Rash
Hives
Itchy skin
Shortness of breath (call 911 immediately)
Chest pain (call 911 immediately)
Sudden drop in blood pressure (call 911 immediately)
Trouble swallowing (call 911 immediately)
Trouble breathing (call 911 immediately)

Call 911 immediately when something out of the ordinary occurs that can seriously affect our health.