A food intolerance is an adverse physical reaction to a food that does not involve the immune system. One common example is lactose intolerance. A person with lactose intolerance lacks an enzyme that is needed to digest milk sugar. Many lactose intolerant people can drink lactose-free milk with no ill effects. A person with a true milk allergy involving the immune system cannot. MedicineNet and the Mayo Clinic have infomration about food intolerances.
What is a food allergy
A food allergy is an immune system response to a food that the body mistakenly believes is harmful. Food allergies can be life-threatening. Any food can cause an allergic reaction, but eight foods cause 90% of all reactions. They are milk, soy, eggs, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish. The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, and the American Academy of Allergy,
Asthma and Immunology all have information on their site about food allergies.
Food intolerance vs. food allergy
Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune genetic disorder affecting children and adults. People with Celiac Disease are unable to eat foods that contain gluten, which is found in wheat and other grains. Visit the University of Maryland Center for Celiac Research or the Celiac Disease Foundation for more information
Eosinophilic esophagitis
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EE) is a condition where an abnormal numbers of eosinophils (white blood cells) inflitrate the esophagus. EE can be triggered by food allergies. Visit the American Partnership For Eosinophilic Disorders for more information.
Disclaimer
Information on this site is not endorsed by FASGMC, FAAN, Dr. Zecca, or The Allergy & Asthma Associates of Monmouth County. The site is NOT intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The inclusion of medications or medical devices does not imply endorsement by FASGMC.
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