If we are allergic to something, we react almost instantaneously. Our skin breaks out in hives, airways close, and we might be running to the bathroom rather quickly.
These are the defining characteristics of a true food allergy. To make matters worse, the reaction can be so severe, it can actually be life-threatening due to anaphylactic shock.
Many children who have true food allergies now carry around an EpiPen here in the United States. This is to provide temporary support before the Emergency Medical Technicians arrive.
The most common foods people have allergies to are peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, and fish/shellfish. It is rare to see someone with more than one or two food allergies.
Food sensitivities, on the other hand, are much subtler. These reactions are mediated by IgG antibodies, which are different from the ones found in true allergies (IgE).
They are generally delayed reactions, with symptoms that can occur up to 72 hours after consuming the food (or foods) in question (which is a great reason to keep a log of what you eat).
In their own right, they are not deadly, but they can contribute to a variety of vague symptoms many experience.
These can include, but are not limited to, joint pain, IBS, bloating, flatulence, weight gain, headaches, lethargy, eczema/skin rashes, fatigue, and depression/anxiety.
Today we go over what you can do about food intolerances!
Enjoy!