How Does a Food Intolerance Differ from an Allergy?
Food intolerances and allergies are often confused. Let's look at the different causes and symptoms of these two phenomena.
Dr. Natalie
What is the difference?
Food allergies occur due to disorders in the immune system, while food intolerances are associated with improper functioning of the digestive system. Simply put, certain foods are not broken down properly due to enzyme deficiencies, sensitivities to additives or natural chemicals found in food. Allergies can lead to anaphylactic shock. Food iIntolerances, with very few exceptions, do not cause such severe consequences.
Allergies can be triggered by even a very small level of allergen. In food intolerances, the strength of the reaction is directly related to the amount of irritant.
Generally, people with food intolerances can afford a small amount of "forbidden" food without experiencing harm to health.
What ...
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