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Food allergies are abnormal immunological responses to a certain food or food component, generally a naturally occurring protein. Food intolerances do not entail abnormal responses of the immune system. Three different kinds of food intolerances are known: anaphylactoid reactions, metabolic food disorders, and idiosyncratic reactions. Good food means good health. That is the universal wisdom. Although sometimes even good, fresh food can make a person sick.
Food Allergy
A proper food allergy causes an immune system reaction that affects a number of organs in your body.
Food Intolerance
Food intolerance means your body is deficient in an enzyme required to break down that food. Common food intolerances include gluten (as in those with Celiac disease) and lactose, a sugar in milk. The key complaint of most intolerance is gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort or pain like bloating, cramps, diarrhea, constipation, gas, and so on.
Food Sensitivity
Each individual has different reactions. Food sensitivity may lead to GI issues, brain fog, headaches, or other minor symptoms. Behavior changes in children are usually ascribed to sensitivities as well.
The Big-8 Food Allergies
A group of the 8 major allergenic foods is generally known as the Big-8.
Milk
Eggs
Fish (e.g., bass, flounder, cod)
Shellfish (e.g., crab, lobster, shrimp)
Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans)
Peanuts
Wheat
Soy
These eight foods above, and any ingredient that contains protein derived from one or more of them are classified as “major food allergens” by FALCPA.
