What is Food Intolerance?
Food intolerance is a digestive system response that occurs when your body has difficulty digesting certain foods. Unlike food allergies, which involve the immune system, food intolerances typically affect the digestive system directly.
Common Types of Food Intolerance
Lactose Intolerance
- Inability to digest lactose (milk sugar)
- Affects approximately 65% of the global population
- Caused by insufficient lactase enzyme
Gluten Sensitivity
- Different from celiac disease
- Non-immune response to gluten proteins
- Common in wheat, barley, and rye
Other Common Intolerances
- Fructose intolerance
- Histamine intolerance
- Sulfite sensitivity
- FODMAPs sensitivity
Common Symptoms
- Bloating
- Gas
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
Diagnosis and Testing
-
Food diary: Track foods and symptoms
-
Elimination diet: Remove suspected foods
-
Breath tests: For specific intolerances
-
Professional consultation: With healthcare provider
Management Strategies
Dietary Modifications
- Identify trigger foods
- Read food labels carefully
- Plan meals in advance
- Consider alternatives/substitutes
Supplementation
- Enzyme supplements when appropriate
- Probiotics for gut health
- Vitamins and minerals as needed
When to Seek Medical Help
- Severe or persistent symptoms
- Significant weight loss
- Nutritional concerns
- Impact on daily life
Prevention Tips
- Keep detailed food records
- Start with small portions of new foods
- Read ingredient lists carefully
- Consider working with a dietitian
Long-term Management
- Regular review of tolerance levels
- Balanced nutrition maintenance
- Ongoing symptom monitoring
- Lifestyle adjustments as needed