Comprehensive Guide on Food Intolerance
Food intolerance occurs when the body doesn't work to digest particular meals or components, causing pain and other digestive problems.
What causes food intolerance?
Food intolerance is typically caused by a lack of certain enzymes required to digest certain meals. The exact reason why some individuals develop food intolerances remains unclear.
However, certain gastrointestinal conditions can make one more susceptible to food sensitivities, such as:
- Celiac disease
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis
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Get A Second OpinionCommon food sensitivities include
Lactose
People with lactose intolerance do not have enough lactase enzyme to break down lactose, a sugar present in milk and dairy products. This is the most common type of food intolerance.
Histamine
Histamines are naturally present in foods like cheese, pineapples, bananas, avocados, and chocolate. Red and some white wines also contain histamines. Individuals who are histamine intolerant do not create sufficient diamine oxidase enzyme to degrade this molecule.
Gluten
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. Gluten sensitivity differs from celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder where gluten damages the small intestines. Those with non-celiac gluten sensitivity have difficulty digesting gluten without the autoimmune response.
What are food intolerance symptoms?
Symptoms of food intolerance typically occur soon after consuming certain foods and primarily affect the digestive system. Common symptoms include:
Treatment
Managing food intolerance primarily involves dietary adjustments and symptom management. Once the intolerance is identified, modifying your diet is crucial. Treatment options include:
- Self-care: Avoid trigger foods, follow low carbohydrate or gluten-free diets, and make other dietary modifications.
- Medications: Depending on the type of intolerance, certain medications or dietary supplements may help.
When to Consult a Doctor
Although food intolerance is not life-threatening and rarely requires emergency care, it is advisable to consult a doctor to evaluate your symptoms. Avoiding foods that trigger symptoms is a good first step, but professional guidance ensures you manage your diet effectively and maintain nutritional balance.
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