Allergy or Intolerance?

Food Allergy

In general a food allergy is the bodies abnormal response to certain foods. The immune system is triggered by the food and this produces symptoms from rashes to swelling and in extreme cases anaphylaxis.

Food allergies only affect a small percentage of the adult population and should be properly diagnosed in consultation with your doctor. Skin prick tests or blood tests can be arranged with a allergy specialist.

Common symptoms include

• Swelling or itching of the lips, mouth, tongue or throat
• Wheezing and shortness of breath
• Itching around the eyes
• Skin reactions; itching, redness, eczema, swelling
• Coughing
  

Food Intolerance

Food intolerances are more common than allergies and generally have a slower onset. Intolerances do not involve the immune system and therefore do not normally produce extreme reactions.

Food Intolerance is an adverse reaction to certain foods or ingredients and often occurs when the body cannot properly digest the food. Small quantites of the food may not produce a reaction but larger amounts will. It is difficult to properly diagnose food intolerances but it is best to consult your doctor as some intolerances can have an adverse effect on your health.