Food allergy and intolerance - We'll make the difference clear!

Whenever we don’t feel well after a meal, we often blame it on allergy.  We increasingly hear about food allergy, often confuse it with food intolerance and tend to lump the two together. 

This is further complicated, by the fact that, in certain instances, a mild allergic reaction can produce very similar symptoms as those of intolerance.  Yet, there is a significant difference between the two with each requiring different prevention and treatment methods. 

The most significant differences

In food intolerance the reaction to certain foods is delayed, its extent determined by the amount consumed and, when only a small amount of the problem causing food is consumed, the reaction may even go unnoticed.  In food allergy, on the other hand, the reaction is immediate when even just a morsel of certain foods are ingested.

Allergy occurs when the immune system over-reacts to certain particles it mistakenly considers harmful or dangerous and sets its defense mechanism into motion by mobilizing its mastocytes and IgE antibodies.  Food allergy symptoms, most common of which are hives, itching and edema, appear very suddenly.  In very serious allergic reactions, the person may get into anaphylactic shock, followed by laryngeal edema and a life threatening condition.

Symptoms of food intolerance in children may be learning difficulties, hyperactivity, eczema and stomachaches.  The symptoms in adults found more often are depression, anxiety, weight gain with skin problems and digestive disorders found at times.  Symptoms of nausea, bloating and diarrhea may be found in any age group.  It is important to remember that, contrary to those of food allergy, the symptoms of food intolerance are varied and develop much slower.

Around 2% to 5% of the population suffers from food allergies, whereas, at 15% to 30% of the population suffering from food intolerance, it is much more prevalent.

Who should not drink milk?

Unfortunately, one of the most common intolerance and allergy causing foods is the vitamin and calcium rich, milk.  Often simply referred to as lactose sensitivity it could be lactose intolerance or milk allergy.

In lactose intolerance the body cannot break down the lactose, or milk sugar, because the necessary digestive enzyme is either missing or not enough.  As a result, the lactose flows through the entire digestive tract in its original state, undigested and causing unpleasant abdominal symptoms and diarrhea.

The magnitude of the symptoms depend on the amount of milk consumed and may be quite mild and, even when an increased amount of milk is consumed, the symptoms may appear only later.  The good news is that, those suffering from lactose intolerance do not have to give up milk products entirely, since there are many fermented products such as yogurt and cheese they can consume and the missing enzyme replaced with medication.

On the other hand, those suffering from food allergy will notice symptoms almost immediately even after a small sip of milk due to the protein (casein) in milk that the immune system will consider harmful and attack.

Incompatibilities

Tyramine, often found in red wine, cheese, canned fish and other foods can cause allergic reactions, rashes and headaches.

Phenylketonuria indicates sensitivity to the amino acid, phenylalanine.  Those suffering from this disease must not consume any foods containing phenylalanine and that is the reason why this information is found on all food packaging.

The various chemicals used to treat foods, especially preserving agents and coloring products can trigger allergic reactions in some.

 

What to do

The good news is that most of the symptoms are caused by food intolerance and the symptoms might well be temporary such as in the case of inflammation of the small intestine.  However, food intolerance may easily become an allergy if it is continually neglected.  Therefore, if you often experience such symptoms as mentioned above, do not belittle them by deciding that you probably ate too much, spoiled your stomach, caught a cold, etc.  A food diary in which you note your experiences and your body’s accurately observed reactions might provide useful information regarding the foods that cause your unpleasant symptoms.

As with all health problems, it is best to turn to a doctor who will be able find the cause of your problems with appropriate examinations and tests.  A single blood drawing is all that is needed to rule out intolerance to 30 or even 120 food products   The food intolerance tests can all be performed here, at the Buda Health Center.                                                                                   

Feel free to contact our specialists!

At the Buda Health Center, you have the opportunity to attend the private practices of more than 300 renowned specialists, offering expertise in nearly 45 medical specialisms, at five locations. Personalized care is provided by a well-trained and empathetic staff of professionals, who have been working together for a long time. Based on our 23 years of experience and the feedback received from our 450,000 clients, we are constantly working to organize our healthcare services in the most efficient way possible for those who visit us, paying respect to their needs and time.

Book an appointment on weekdays between 08:00 and 20:00 on +36 1 489-5200!