Food Sensitivities & Intolerances
Missing simple pleasures like enjoying an ice cream in a hot summer day?
Food sensitivities, also known as food intolerances, are adverse reactions to certain foods that are not related to the immune system. Unlike food allergies, which involve an immune response and can be life-threatening, food sensitivities typically involve digestive or other symptoms that may be uncomfortable or disruptive but are not life-threatening.
When you have a food sensitivity or intolerance, signs or symptoms usually begin to appear within a few hours and can even be delayed by up to about 48 hours following consuming the food causing the sensitivity. Food sensitivities can affect people of all ages and can develop at any time.
Common Food Sensitivities
This is a common food sensitivity where the body is unable to properly digest lactose, a sugar found in milk and dairy products. Symptoms may include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. People with gluten intolerance may experience symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, fatigue, and skin rashes.
Histamine is a natural compound found in certain foods, such as aged cheeses, fermented foods, and wine. Some people may have a sensitivity to histamine, leading to symptoms such as headaches, hives, itching, and digestive issues.
Sulfites are preservatives found in many foods and drinks, including wine, dried fruits, and processed meats. Sulfite sensitivity can cause symptoms such as hives, itching, stomach cramps, and diarrhea.
FODMAPs are certain types of carbohydrates found in many foods, such as wheat, beans, onions, and garlic. People with FODMAP intolerance may experience digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.
Some people may be sensitive to certain food additives, such as artificial sweeteners, MSG (monosodium glutamate), and food dyes. Symptoms may include headaches, digestive issues, and skin rashes.
Signs & Symptoms
Food sensitivities can vary widely from person to person, and not everyone will experience the same symptoms or have the same trigger foods. We can help identify your trigger foods and develop an individualized plan to manage your symptoms. Some of the common signs and symptoms of food sensitivities include:
Digestive symptoms are the most common signs of food sensitivities. They occur when the body has difficulty digesting certain foods or food components. For example, some people may be lactose intolerant, which means they have difficulty digesting lactose, a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products. This can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, or nausea. Other common food sensitivities include gluten intolerance, which can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation, and fructose intolerance, which can cause bloating, gas, or diarrhea. Some of the common digestive symptoms include:
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Bloating or gas
• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Nausea or vomiting
Food sensitivities can also cause skin symptoms, such as rashes or hives. This is because some foods or food components can trigger an immune response, which can cause inflammation or irritation of the skin. For example, some people may be sensitive to certain preservatives or additives in food, such as sulfites or food coloring, which can cause itching or rash. Some of the common skin symptoms include:
• Rashes or hives
• Eczema or other forms of dermatitis
• Itching or swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
In some cases, food sensitivities can cause respiratory symptoms, such as runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, or coughing. This is because certain foods or food components can trigger an allergic reaction in the respiratory system, leading to inflammation or irritation of the airways. For example, some people may be sensitive to airborne allergens, such as pollen or mold, which can cross-react with certain foods and trigger respiratory symptoms. Some of the common respiratory symptoms include:
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sneezing or coughing
• Wheezing or shortness of breath
Some people may experience headaches or migraines as a result of food sensitivities. This is because certain foods or food components can trigger the release of chemicals in the brain that can cause headaches or migraines. For example, some people may be sensitive to tyramine, a chemical found in aged cheese, which can trigger migraines in susceptible individuals.
Food sensitivities can also cause non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, brain fog, or difficulty concentrating. This is because certain foods or food components can affect the brain and nervous system, leading to symptoms such as lethargy, confusion, or poor concentration. For example, some people may be sensitive to gluten or dairy, which can cause symptoms such as brain fog or fatigue.
It is important to note that the symptoms of food sensitivities can vary widely depending on the individual and the type of food or food component involved. Some people may experience mild symptoms that are easily managed, while others may experience more severe symptoms that require medical attention. If you suspect that you have a food sensitivity or are experiencing any unusual symptoms after eating certain foods, we can help you identify the problem food and develop a treatment plan.
Conventional approach
The conventional approach to food sensitivities typically involves identifying the problem food or food component and eliminating it from the diet. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to “manage” symptoms. For example, antihistamines or corticosteroids may be prescribed to manage allergic reactions.
The conventional approach to food sensitivities may NOT be effective for most people because it relies on identifying and eliminating problem foods, but it does NOT address the underlying cause of the food sensitivity. Additionally, conventional diagnostic tests may NOT always accurately identify food sensitivities, leading to false negative or false positive resulst.
Food sensitivities can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, gut health, and inflammation. The conventional approach to food sensitivities often does NOT address these underlying factors, which can make it difficult to achieve long-term relief from symptoms. Additionally, it may NOT take into account individual variations in gut health and microbiome composition, which can impact the way an individual responds to certain foods.
Our approach
We take a personalized approach to managing food sensitivities and intolerances.
Rather than simply avoiding trigger foods, we seek to understand the underlying imbalances or dysfunctions that may be contributing to the food sensitivity. This approach may involve the mentioned steps.
We conduct a thorough evaluation of the participant’s medical history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors to understand the underlying factors that may be contributing to the specific food sensitivity.
We may use a variety of specialized tests to identify food sensitivities, including blood tests, elimination diets, and food challenges.
Based on the results of the assessment and testing, a personalized treatment plan is developed that may include dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, targeted nutraceuticals and supplements, and other therapies designed to address the underlying causes of the food sensitivity.
We may work with participants to identify and address the underlying imbalances or dysfunctions that are contributing to the food sensitivity. For example, we may address gut health, inflammation, and nutrient deficiencies.
Once the underlying imbalances or dysfunctions have been addressed, we may work with participants to reintroduce foods that were previously triggering symptoms. This can help you identify which foods you can safely eat and which ones to avoid.
We recognize that each individual is unique and requires a personalized approach to managing their health. By identifying and addressing the underlying causes of food sensitivities, we aim to improve digestive function and reduce the risk of complications associated with these conditions.
Food Sensitivities Blogs
Unraveling Gluten Intolerance
Unraveling Gluten Intolerance Introduction: In a world dominated by grains and baked goods, gluten intolerance emerges as a significant dietary challenge. This condition, often
Unraveling Food Sensitivities
Unraveling Food Sensitivities Introduction: In a world teeming with culinary delights, some individuals face a unique challenge: food sensitivities. These adverse reactions to
Navigating Histamine Intolerance
Navigating Histamine Intolerance Introduction: In the realm of food sensitivities, histamine intolerance stands as a lesser-known yet significant concern. While histamine is a