WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF AN ALLERGY OR AN INTOLERANCE ?
Food allergy symptoms can include :
• swelling to the face , lips and eyes
• a mild to moderate skin reaction such as hives or welts
•
anaphylaxis , characterised by difficulty breathing , swelling of the tongue and tightness of the throat
Food intolerance symptoms can include :
• bloating
• gas
• nausea
• diarrhoea
• mouth ulcers
• hives
• headaches
• skin rashes
What causes a food intolerance ?
It is often unclear as to why a food intolerance occurs , but it can be categorised into four key areas :
1 . Metabolic conditions such as lactose intolerance ( due to an enzyme deficiency ) and carbohydrate malabsorption ( including FODMAPs like fructose and polyols )
2 . Pharmacologic reactions to naturally occurring food chemicals such as salicylates , amines and glutamates
3 . Toxic reactions such as food poisoning
4 . Adverse reactions to artificial preservatives such as sulphites and benzoates
What are the most common food allergies and intolerances ? The most common food allergies in children are peanuts , eggs and milk products . Parents should be aware of the possibility of anaphylaxis , a life-threatening reaction that impacts breathing . Children can often outgrow allergies to milk , eggs , soy and wheat .
Lactose intolerance and gluten intolerance are two of the most suspected intolerances when it comes to food , but self-diagnosing or cutting out these foods without advice , is not recommended due to the risk of nutrient inadequacy , especially in children .
© Dietitian Connection 34 Infuse | February 2022