Some of the negative effects of some of the substances in foods and foods on the body are referred to as food allergies. The body's reaction and reaction to substances are divided into two as food intolerance and food allergy . These two concepts, which are often confused among themselves, create different situations. While food intolerance does not cause allergies in the body, this is the opposite in food allergy.
Food intolerance is defined as the reaction of the digestive system to any substance in a food consumed. The substance in the food cannot be digested or broken down properly in the individual's digestive system. This can also cause irritation and damage to the digestive system.
Factors that can cause this include a lack of enzymes or the inability to digest a substance in the food. Some foods that cannot be digested can cause a number of reactions in the body. Some of these are; weakness, fatigue, stomach problems, migraine, vomiting.
What are the Symptoms of Food Intolerance?
Food intolerance can occur when a person eats any food for the first time. The factor affecting this condition is usually the amount and size of the food. When the food that causes this condition is taken in small amounts, it does not cause any problems in the body, but when consumed excessively, it can cause different problems. Symptoms of food intolerance can be listed as follows:
- Stomach problems, pain, contraction and burning sensation
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
- Gas compression, cramps and bloating
- Headache
- Anger and irritability
- Weakness and fatigue
How is Food Intolerance Diagnosed?
This condition can be diagnosed with an elimination diet or food intolerance test. In order to determine the foods that cause problems in the elimination diet, suspicious foods and nutrients are completely removed from the list in the presence of a specialist or dietician. These foods are then added to the list one by one and it is determined which food causes this condition.
In the food intolerance test, the person is tested for sensitivity to many substances and nutrients. Eating habits are organized according to the results of this test.
What is Food Intolerance Test?
Some foods can be beneficial for human health. In some people, this situation may be the opposite and the food that benefits everyone may not be good for their body. For example; broccoli is a healthy and beneficial vegetable. This vegetable may not be good for some people's bodies and digestive systems. People can have tests to identify and understand such situations. These tests are available in hospitals, clinics and dieticians' offices. You can get tested in these places and find out which foods your digestive system can get along well with.
What is Food Allergy?
It is defined as a reaction and response of the immune system to a substance in the food consumed by the person. The body creates a defense mechanism against this substance and produces a type of antibody called IgE. When the food that has an allergenic substance for the person re-enters the body, the previously produced antibody causes a chemical called histamine to be released. This chemical causes the individual to have an allergic reaction to certain foods.
Foods that can cause allergies in some people are as follows:
- Wheat
- Soy products
- Egg
- Milk
- Strawberry
- Almond
- Walnut
What are the Symptoms of Food Allergy?
If a person is allergic to any food or nutrient, the first consumption of the food may not cause any symptoms. When the person consumes this food again, it is understood whether they are allergic or not. The symptoms of this condition can be mild or very severe. Symptoms of food allergy are as follows:
- Itchy skin, rash or hives
- Swelling of the tongue, throat or eyes
- Nausea and vomiting problems
- Heart problems, chest pain and shortness of breath
- Low blood pressure and dizziness
- Passing out, fainting
- Anaphylactic shock, low pulse and life-threatening conditions
How is Food Allergy Diagnosed?
To determine the diagnosis of this condition, IgE antibody levels that the body produces in response to allergic substances are measured. In addition, allergy tests can also be performed to diagnose this condition. Allergy tests are performed with respiratory tests, blood and skin samples that respond specifically to foods and foods.
IgE level is determined by taking blood from the person after consumption of the food. Similarly, the kit containing suspicious foods is applied to the person and possible reactions and allergic conditions are observed. All tests and results should be performed by a specialized doctor.
What are the Treatment Methods for Food Intolerance?
For the treatment of this condition, the food that causes negative results should be removed from the nutrition list or consumed to the extent that the body can handle. If the food that causes this condition is a necessary food for the body, a different food with the same properties should be consumed instead of this food.
People with gluten intolerance may experience vitamin B deficiency due to insufficient wheat consumption. Instead of consuming wheat, these people can consume gluten-free corn flour, buckwheat or quinoa.
What are Food Allergy Treatment Methods?
In case of this situation, the food that causes allergy in the body should be determined and should not be consumed. However, these substances can be taken from some foods unintentionally. Antihistamines can be used with the advice of a doctor to prevent minor allergic reactions that cause this condition. In case of serious problems, the person should go to the hospital and be examined by a specialist doctor.
Food Allergy? Food Intolerance? What is the Difference?
Food allergies can occur as a result of the body's hypersensitivity and reaction to foods. While these allergic reactions can be life-threatening, they usually occur after consumption.
In food intolerance, reactions and reactions occur after a while. Symptoms and signs, which are usually not obvious, may occur after a few days if the food that causes negative consequences cannot be digested by the body. This condition is not life-threatening for the person.