Food allergy is a specific reaction resulting from an abnormal immunological response to food.
It may be severe, symptoms can be of rapid onset or develop more slowly.
Food intolerance is a reaction to food that may be due to varying factors, however it is not an immunological response.
Diagnosing food allergy or intolerance:
Diagnosis can be difficult when deciding whether you have intolerance or allergy. It’s usually distinguished on the basis of clinical and dietary history.
Food allergy can be confirmed by immunological tests.
There are 4 main types of allergic response.
If you have been assessed you may have been classed into one of these groups.
The types of allergic response range from acute type I to delayed type IV reactions.
Type I:
‘Classic’ reactions occur within minutes of exposure to the antigen.
Type II:
‘Cytotoxic’ also immediate but the reaction is confined to cell membrane.
Type III:
‘Immune complex reactions’ these occur a few hours after the exposure. Most reactions occur in the skin and bronchi.
Type IV:
‘Cell medicated reactions’ appear 24-48 hours after exposure.
The most common foods known to cause an allergic reaction include; peanuts, tree nuts, soya, milk, fish, shellfish, eggs, fruit, seeds and herbs.
The most important thing with a food allergy is identifying what you are allergic to, and then the treatment simply consists of avoiding that food or food group.
Food intolerance
Food intolerance can cause similar symptoms to an allergic response, such as vomiting, diarrhoea or a rash. But the difference is that there is no immunological response.
Food intolerances are notoriously difficult to diagnose.
Food intolerance can be confirmed in most cases by monitoring the effects of controlled food exclusion and reintroduction.
How can an Eatatease Dietitian help?
The UK registered Dietitians at Eatatease can advise on the most appropriate diet based upon your present food allergy or food intolerance. The e-consultation option allows a comprehensive dietary review to be undertaken by a UK registered Dietitian.
Get PERSONALLY tailored diet advice about food allergy or intolerance from one of our registered dietitians!
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