The Thin Line between Allergy and Intolerance
You may believe you have an allergy if you have had a reaction to a certain meal, such as stomach pains or diarrhea. However, dietary intolerance is the most likely cause.
Understanding the differences between allergy and intolerance is crucial. You'll be more equipped to deal with them this way.While food allergy and intolerance symptoms may appear to be identical, there is a significant difference in how they affect your body. An allergic condition is interceded by the immune system and can have an effect on a variety of organs. Food intolerance, not allergy, is the most common cause of stomach problems.
Intolerance's Telltale Signs
You might hear someone state that a particular cuisine doesn't go well with them. So, what exactly does that imply? What kind of things do some people find intolerable? Here's a rundown of some of the most popular offenders:
Food and additives
Medications that can cause stomach pains, headaches, and dizziness.
Certain elements in particular foods, such as lactose, might cause cramping, diarrhea, or vomiting within a few hours. Manufacturers may add these additives to make dishes more colorful and tasty in some situations. These problems are inconvenient, but they are unlikely to be life-threatening.
Allergen Reactions
Symptoms of allergies, on the other hand, are significantly more severe. They can happen in as little as 30 minutes or as much as two hours.
If you're allergic to peanuts or soy, for example, even a small amount can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction. A rash or hives may appear, as well as swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, as well as trouble breathing or wheezing.
Other typical causes of allergic reactions include:
Drugs, such as penicillin and other medications
Venom from a stinging bee or wasp
Pollen, mildew, dust, cats, and dogs, among other things, can trigger allergic symptoms like rhinitis and asthma.
Allergy and intolerance diagnosis
If you're unsure whether you have an intolerance or food allergy, go to your doctor. He or she will assist you in developing a plan to help you manage your symptoms.
Allergy skin testing might help you figure out how your body reacts to allergens. A blood test, on the other hand with more precision and accuracy can reveal high allergy antibody levels produced by your immune system.
It's not an exact science to figure out what causes food intolerance. It's possible that you don't have all of the enzymes needed to digest proteins.
Keeping a food journal to track what you eat and get symptoms, and what they are may be beneficial. It's most likely intolerance if a food or component causes you discomfort on a regular basis.
Taking control of your reactions
The easiest way to avoid most intolerances and allergies is to avoid them altogether. To put it another way, avoid the substances that upset you.At Full Circle Health, we provide a wide range of food allergy and intolerance tests. Have the tests done in our lab as untreated conditions can render complicated and extended health problems.