Here at FoodFit, we know food allergies are an important aspect of health and nutrition, affecting millions of people worldwide. For those with a food allergy, even a small amount of a certain food can trigger severe symptoms. Understanding the basics of food allergies is crucial to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, particularly when it comes to making informed food choices.

This article explores what food allergies are, their symptoms, how they differ from intolerances and how they are diagnosed.


Understanding Food Allergies

A food allergy occurs when the immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food or ingredient as harmful. In response, the immune system generates a large quantity of IgE antibodies, which bind to specialised white blood cells and then the body triggers an allergic reaction to “combat” the perceived threat. This reaction usually involves the release of chemicals like histamine, leading to a range of symptoms. Unlike food intolerances, which are more related to digestive issues, food allergies involve the immune system and can sometimes be life threatening.

Common Symptoms of Food Allergies

The symptoms of a food allergy can vary greatly from mild to severe and may affect different parts of the body. Some common symptoms include:

• Skin reactions such as hives, itching or eczema
• Swelling of the lips, face or tongue
• Digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Respiratory symptoms like wheezing or difficulty breathing
• Anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention
   

How Food Allergies Differ from Food Intolerances

It’s important to differentiate between food allergies and food intolerances, as they are often confused. A food intolerance typically involves the digestive system, and while it can cause discomfort, it is not life threatening. Common examples include lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. In contrast, a food allergy activates the immune system, which can lead to a dangerous reaction. Even a trace amount of the allergenic food can provoke an immediate and sometimes severe response.

What Causes Food Allergies?

Food allergies are typically triggered by proteins found in certain foods that the immune system identifies as harmful. The most common allergens include:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts and cashews)
• Soy
• Wheat
• Fish and shellfish
   

Some people are more genetically predisposed to developing allergies, while environmental factors may also play a role. For children, food allergies can sometimes be outgrown, but some persist into adulthood.

Managing Food Allergies

Managing a food allergy requires strict avoidance of the allergenic food. This includes reading labels carefully, being aware of cross-contamination and communicating your allergy in social settings. In cases of severe allergies, carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) is vital to treat anaphylaxis in emergency situations.

Understanding food allergies and their impact on health is crucial for making informed decisions about what to eat and how to avoid potential risks. With the right knowledge, people with food allergies can continue to lead healthy, balanced lives by choosing foods that are safe for them and adhering to clinically tested food compatibility guidelines.

Support your clients in managing food allergies. Contact us today to learn how FoodFit's clinically tested Compatibility Program can support their journey to better health.