Is it an allergy or an intolerance ?
by Nicole Dynan
The terms ‘ allergy ’ and ‘ intolerance ’ are often used interchangeably when it comes to reactions to food , but they are distinct terms with different meanings …
AN ALLERGY
An allergy is a reaction of the body ’ s immune system to a specific protein in a certain food . These proteins are harmless for most people , but for people who are allergic , they may cause mild to severe symptoms , which can be immediate and even life-threatening .
AN INTOLERANCE
An intolerance does not involve the body ’ s immune system , but rather the digestive system . With the exceptions of sulphites and benzoates which may cause anaphylaxis , food intolerances are not lifethreatening . They usually occur more slowly than an allergy , sometimes hours or days after the food is eaten .
© Dietitian Connection 33 Infuse | February 2022