The differences between a food allergy and food intolerance may be hard to miss at first. What may be a tolerable slice of feta in a summer salad may not have your body feeling the same as a few slices of pizza. Physical reactions to both are common, but these are likely caused by food intolerance and not an allergy. The two are commonly mistaken as one another, but the differences are pretty stark. Food intolerances are often far less serious. We decided to dissect the differences for you. We want you to know the telltale signs you have a food intolerance. Keep reading for more.
What is the Difference Between a Food Intolerance and Food Allergy?
According to the Mayo Clinic, the differences have to do with your body’s reaction to the food. For food intolerances, a little bit can likely be tolerated by your body. Food intolerance is likely to come in the form of digestive issues. If you feel like you have inflammation, nausea, or trouble digesting the food you just ate, this is most likely also food intolerance. The signs are super similar to a food allergy. The differences are stark in contrast. You may even be able to stop food intolerance with medication. Like with dairy, for example, you can lactase enzyme pills to aid your body’s digestion.
A food allergy causes your immune system to react. It can cause a bigger range of symptoms that can be severe or even life-threatening in some cases. Hives, severe allergic reactions, swelling, and more are food allergies. The best way to distinguish these may be to get an allergy test.
The Causes of Food Intolerance
There are several reasons your body may have an intolerance to food and the following are the culprits. According to the Mayo Clinic, causes of food intolerance include:
- Absence of an enzyme needed to fully digest a food
- Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS
- Sensitivity to food additives in certain dishes
- Recurring stress or psychological factors
- Celiac disease or the intolerance of gluten in your body
The Telltale Signs You Have a Food Intolerance
There are signs you have a food intolerance and may also be prone to this issue with the food you’re eating. They are the following:
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Gas, cramps or bloating (digestion issues)
- Vomiting
- Heartburn
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
- Irritability or nervousness
