Food Allergy versus Food Hypersensitivity
Many people don’t realize that they can have severe food sensitivity without actually being allergic to those foods. Even if your body is not reacting to a certain food with the instant sensation of rash or hives, you may still be experiencing a more delayed allergic response. This type of delayed reaction is known as food sensitivity or intolerance, and the symptoms are often frustrating and can last for years if you unknowingly continue to consume the source of your reaction.
True food allergies trigger an IgE immune response to acutely produce massive amounts of the chemical histamine which can lead to an anaphylactic reaction. An example of this type of reaction would be the immediate swelling of the lips and throat due to an allergy to peanuts or eggs. These potentially fatal reactions can also cause less serious reactions such as hives and skin rashes.
The inability to tolerate foods and environmental factors are referred to as sensitivities or intolerance. These are not true food allergies and, in comparison, cause a slower, more chronic inflammatory response often associated with a variety of debilitating symptoms.
As you consume the foods that your body is intolerant of, your immune system activates and leads to chronic inflammation. This inflammation can cause many vague symptoms such as:
- Rash
- Skin disorders
- Migraines
- Chronic fatigue
- Digestive disorders
- ADD
- Joint pain
- Arthritis
- Vertigo
- Mood swings
- Mental dullness
- Depression
- Forgetfulness
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
In addition to these conditions, food sensitivity could be causing you to gain weight or be contributing to your severe difficulty losing weight. Food sensitivity often leads to obesity and obesity related illnesses such as Type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Learning more about your body and the foods that your body has difficulty digesting could help you to finally overcome your obesity and help you begin losing weight and feeling healthier.
One of the most effective tools to diagnose food sensitivity and intolerance is with a special blood test offered through Dr. Croland at Learn2Lose and is called the ALCAT Test. Through the ALCAT test, the professional staff at Learn2Lose can help you discover which foods and additives may be causing you chronic symptoms and illness.
If you are suffering from daily pain and discomfort that is associated with a chronic condition that you feel may be diet related, contact Dr. Croland to schedule an appointment. The discomfort and pain that is associated with food intolerance can be entirely preventable. Contact Dr. Croland and take the first step towards a healthier and happier life.