Feeling bloated?

There’s a lot of confusion surrounding the correct terminology for the body’s reaction to certain foods. Food allergy, food intolerance, food sensitivity – we use different terms to describe different symptoms. These terms are not mutually interchangeable, as they denote different health conditions, which can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening.  Let us explain the difference:

Food intolerance is a tricky term, as it can refer to reactions caused by the immune system, but also to reactions triggered by certain chemicals or additives in food products, or through a lack of enzymes (the most common reason). The most prominent example for a food intolerance caused by a lack of enzymes is lactose intolerance. Research has found that only about 35% people worldwide can digest lactose well after the age of seven or eight. Typical lactose intolerance symptoms include flatulence and diarrhea. Food intolerances caused by the immune system can be tested by screening a patient’s blood for elevated levels of IgG antibodies towards certain foods. Common trigger foods include grains containing gluten, caffeine, processed meats, dried fruits, pickled foods, canned vegetables, and high-fructose foods (honey, agave nectar, watermelon, pears, etc.)