Your body can react to certain foods in various ways, including food sensitivity, food intolerance, and food allergy. Understanding the differences between these reactions is crucial for proper diagnosis and management. While often confused, these conditions are distinct and require different approaches.
Food sensitivity is believed to be a type of immune response different from a food allergy. While the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, research suggests a connection between IgG antibody reactions and inflammation, potentially leading to symptoms like headaches, bloating, stomach pain, and indigestion. Unlike allergies, food sensitivity symptoms can manifest hours or even days after consuming the trigger food, making identification challenging. Food Allergy Tests, often focusing on IgE antibodies, may not be helpful in diagnosing food sensitivities. Elimination diets, sometimes combined with IgG food sensitivity tests, can help pinpoint problematic foods.
Food allergy, on the other hand, involves an immediate immune response triggered by IgE antibodies. When you consume a food you’re allergic to, these antibodies interact with the allergen, causing the release of histamine. This histamine release leads to a range of allergic symptoms, from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylaxis. Common food allergens include tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, and milk. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening reaction characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure and airway swelling, requiring immediate medical attention.
Food intolerance, unlike allergies and sensitivities, does not involve the immune system. It occurs when your body lacks the necessary enzymes to properly digest a specific food. A prime example is lactose intolerance, where the body doesn’t produce enough lactase to break down lactose in dairy products. Symptoms of food intolerance, such as nausea, bloating, and diarrhea, typically manifest in the digestive system. These symptoms are generally less severe than allergic reactions and are not life-threatening. While a food allergy test is essential for diagnosing allergies, it won’t detect food intolerances.
Distinguishing between these three types of food reactions is crucial for effective management. A food allergy test, specifically targeting IgE antibodies, is essential for diagnosing food allergies. However, for food sensitivities and intolerances, other diagnostic approaches, such as elimination diets and specific tests for enzyme deficiencies, are necessary. Understanding your body’s unique response to food allows you to make informed dietary choices and avoid potential health complications.
