Comprehensive Food Intolerance Test

Allergies and intolerances are two different conditions. An allergy is an immune reaction to a food, which can be life-threatening. An intolerance is a reaction to food caused by an inability to digest it properly. Intolerance symptoms can range from mild to severe, but they are not life-threatening. If you think you may have a food allergy or intolerance, it is best to speak to a doctor or dietitian to get a proper diagnosis.

Food Allergy versus Intolerance (Immune System vs. digestive System)

Some of the symptoms of food intolerance and food allergy are similar, but the  differences  between the two  (allergy versus intolerance)  are very important. Eating a food you are intolerant to can leave you feeling miserable. However, if you have a true food allergy, your body’s reaction to this food could be life-threatening.

A  food intolerance is initiated at the level of the digestive system. It occurs when you are unable to properly break down the food. This could be due to enzyme deficiencies, sensitivity to food additives, or reactions to naturally occurring chemicals in foods. Often, people can eat small amounts of the food without causing problems.

Symptoms include:- arthritis, anxiety(acute or chronic), attention deficit disorder, abdominal bloating, asthma, bedwetting, bronchitis, coeliac disease, constipation, chronic fatigue syndrome, cystic fibrosis, depression, diarrhea, fibromyalgia, gastritis, headaches, hyperactivity disorder, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, insomnia, itchy skin, malabsorption, migraines, and water retention, weight control problems.

A  food allergic  reaction involves the immune system. Your  immune system  controls how your body defends itself. For instance, if you have an allergy to cow’s milk, your immune system identifies cow’s milk as an invader or allergen. Your immune system overreacts by producing antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These antibodies travel to cells that release chemicals, causing an allergic reaction. Each type of IgE has a specific “radar” for each type of allergen.

Unlike a food intolerance, a food allergy can cause a serious or even life-threatening reaction by eating a microscopic amount and touching or inhaling the food.

Symptoms of allergic reactions to foods are generally seen on the skin (hives, itchiness, swelling of the skin). Gastrointestinal symptoms may include vomiting and diarrhea. Respiratory symptoms may accompany skin and gastrointestinal symptoms but don’t usually occur alone.

Anaphylaxis (pronounced an-a-fi-LAK-sis) is a serious allergic reaction that happens very quickly. Symptoms of anaphylaxis may include difficulty breathing, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. Without immediate treatment—an injection of epinephrine (adrenalin) and expert care anaphylaxis can be fatal.