Food intolerance
Food intolerance refers to a physical response to a food or food additive that is not an allergic reaction. It differs from a food allergy in that it does not involve the immune system and it is much more common.
Food intolerances are often mistaken as food allergies. Some common food intolerances include sulfites, lactose, and food additives like MSG. Food intolerances do not usually cause as severe a reaction as food allergies, but they can cause nausea, vomiting, painful cramping, and diarrhea.
What does it mean to have food intolerance?
Many people think they have a food allergy, but in fact they have food intolerance. An intolerance can cause some of the same symptoms as a mild food allergy, like an upset stomach. It can make you feel bad, but it isn't dangerous.
Food intolerances are much more common than food allergies. True food allergies are a reaction to food or food additives by your body's immune system. But a food intolerance doesn't cause an allergic reaction.
©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated