When you experience discomfort after eating certain foods, it can be difficult to know whether you’re dealing with a food allergy or intolerance. While these conditions can share similar symptoms, understanding their differences is crucial for managing your health and well-being.
At Integra Concierge Medicine, Dr. Paul A. Busse, a board-certified family medicine specialist, and his team can guide you through the maze of allergy and food intolerance testing as part of their integrative medical approach.
What Are Food Allergies?
Food allergies occur when your immune system incorrectly identifies a harmless food as a threat and launches an attack. This can result in a range of symptoms. Mild reactions may include hives and itching, whereas severe reactions include swelling, trouble breathing, and even anaphylaxis.
The following are some of the most common food allergens:
- Peanuts
- Shellfish
- Dairy
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
- Soybeans
Unlike intolerances, food allergies can be life-threatening. They typically require immediate medical attention.
What Are Food Intolerances?
Food intolerances are different because they do not involve the immune system. They occur when the body has difficulty digesting a certain food, often due to enzyme deficiencies or sensitivity to food additives.
Food intolerance symptoms are generally less severe. They may include:
- Bloating
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
Lactose intolerance is one of the most common examples. While uncomfortable, food intolerances are not life-threatening and are often managed by adjusting your diet.
How Allergy Testing Can Help
Determining whether you have a food allergy or intolerance is essential for properly managing your symptoms. Allergy testing can help pinpoint the cause of your reactions by identifying specific allergens or intolerances.
At Integra Concierge Medicine, we can coordinate advanced testing methods to evaluate your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan.
It doesn’t matter if you’re dealing with a true allergy or a food intolerance. Understanding the difference can help you make wiser dietary choices and boost your quality of life.
Schedule a Consultation in Jacksonville, FL
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are due to a food allergy or intolerance, contact us today to book a consultation and start working toward better health. Call us at (904) 619-3609 or submit our online form.