Food Allergies

Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a certain food protein as harmful. This triggers an allergic reaction, which can range from mild to severe. The top food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, and sesame.

Symptoms of food allergies can vary, but generally start within 15 minutes to an hour of eating a food. The common signs include:

• Skin reactions: Hives, itching, or swelling, especially around the face, lips, or eyes.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Respiratory symptoms: Wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
• Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that can include swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing, and a drop in blood pressure.

Treatment for Food Allergies

There is no cure for food allergies, but several treatments can help manage reactions and prevent severe symptoms:

• Avoidance: The most effective treatment for food allergies is to avoid consuming the allergenic food completely.
• Epinephrine: For severe reactions (anaphylaxis), self-administered epinephrine is the most effective treatment and should be administered immediately.
• Other treatments: Please see the "Treatment" tab for information about biologics and food challenges.

Food Intolerance

Food intolerance is different from a food allergy in that it does not involve the immune system. Instead, food intolerances occur when the digestive system has difficulty processing certain foods. Common food intolerances include lactose intolerance (difficulty digesting dairy) and gluten intolerance (non-celiac gluten sensitivity).

Symptoms of Food Intolerance

Symptoms of food intolerance can range from mild to moderate and typically affect the digestive system:

• Bloating: Feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
• Gas: Excessive burping or flatulence.
• Diarrhea: Frequent loose stools.
• Abdominal pain: Cramping or discomfort after eating the offending food.

Management of Food Intolerance

The best way to manage food intolerance is to identify and avoid the foods that trigger symptoms:

• Food Tracking: Keep a food diary to track symptoms and identify any potential food triggers.
• Enzyme Supplements: In some cases, over-the-counter enzyme supplements (such as lactase for lactose intolerance) can help the digestive system process certain foods.
• Dietary Adjustments: For intolerances like lactose intolerance, alternatives such as lactose-free dairy products can be used.
• Gradual Introduction: In some cases, gradually reintroducing small amounts of the offending food may help the body adjust and reduce symptoms.