Difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance?

Food allergy and food intolerance are two types of adverse reactions to food, but they differ in their underlying mechanisms and symptoms.

Food allergy is an immune system reaction to a particular food protein. When a person with a food allergy consumes the food protein, their immune system produces an allergic reaction, which can range from mild to severe. Symptoms of a food allergy can include hives, swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat, difficulty breathing, stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, food allergy can cause anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, wheat, and soy.

On the other hand, food intolerance is a non-immune system reaction to certain foods, and it occurs when the body has difficulty digesting a particular food component. This can be due to the lack of a particular enzyme or the presence of an irritant substance in the food. Symptoms of food intolerance can include bloating, gas, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and nausea. Food intolerance is generally less severe than a food allergy, and the symptoms can take longer to develop and last longer.

In summary, food allergy is an immune system reaction to a particular food protein that can cause severe and even life-threatening symptoms, while food intolerance is a non-immune system reaction to certain foods that is generally less severe and can cause digestive symptoms. It is important to identify food allergies and intolerances and avoid consuming the offending foods to prevent adverse reactions.

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