Understanding Food Allergies and Intolerances

Food allergies and intolerances are common in the United States, yet they are very different. A food allergy occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to a substance in a food. The most common foods that lead to allergic reactions are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat. Symptoms of this can be mild, such as a runny nose or itchy eyes, or they can be very severe and life-threatening. On the contrary, a food intolerance occurs when the body is unable to digest a certain component of food, such as lactose. Symptoms of this can include abdominal cramping or diarrhea, but these symptoms are not life-threatening. It is important for people with food allergies and intolerances to avoid the foods that make them sick. Cross contact can occur if allergy-triggering foods are prepared on the same surface or with the same utensils as the non-allergy foods. It is important to be aware of this and take caution. Some other important tips to remember if you have a food allergy or intolerance include meeting with a registered dietitian nutritionist, learning about ingredients in foods, reading labels carefully, and talking with your daycare, school, or workplace about the food allergy or intolerance. Following these tips can help people with food allergies and intolerances avoid the foods that cause their symptoms. 

For more information, go to: https://www.eatright.org/health/allergies-and-intolerances/food-allergies/food-allergies-and-intolerances