What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
Unlike a food allergy, food intolerance does not involve the immune system. However, the physical symptoms of food intolerance, such as intestinal discomfort, can resemble those of a true food allergy. For this reason, a food intolerance reaction may be easily confused with an allergic reaction. When and individual swallows the allergy-causing food (usually milk, soy, wheat, peanuts, shellfish, eggs), antibodies rush in and attack the foreign substance. This may cause swelling and irritation in certain parts of the body so problem foods will need to be avoided. Some reactions may be life threatening. A true food allergy is an abnormal response of the body’s immune system to certain foods or ingredients. The most severe type of food allergy reaction is called anaphylaxis. This reaction can occur within moments after eating the offending food. Symptoms may include hives, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness. Common foods that cause anaphylaxis are peanuts, nuts, eggs, and shel
