Have you ever considered the difference between food allergies and food sensitivity? What do you think is the difference between the two concepts? Let’s try to find out! The body's response distinguishes between a food allergy and sensitivity. Your immune system triggers a reaction when you have a food allergy while the digestive system causes a reaction if you have a food sensitivity or intolerance. According to the British Allergy Foundation, food sensitivities and intolerances are more common than food allergies.

Food intolerance is cause with the physical reactions to specific foods. Sometimes, we’re confuse with food intolerance and food allergies because the signs and symptoms are the same. Food allergies can cause different symptoms, some of which are severe and even life-threatening. On the other hand, food sensitivity usually affects the digestive tract and can cause mild symptoms. Food sensitivities, according to Sherry Farzan, MD, an allergist and immunologist at North Shore-LIJ Health System in Great Neck, N.Y., are not life-threatening. She reported that some dietary intolerances aren't cause by the immune system but they’re cause by the body’s incapacity to process or digest food. Gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, cramps, and nausea are all signs of food sensitivity.

Food allergies are common worldwide. Peanut allergy is also common among preschool children which started during their early age. One of the most prevalent allergies in children is the cow's milk. Majority of children suffered such problem before starting school. Children with allergic condition (such as asthma or eczema) are 20% - 40% will develop food allergies. Allergies are caused by the immune system’s response to proteins. Foods, pollens, house dust, animal fur, and molds are considered as allergens. The term allergy describes how the immune system reacts to a non-toxic chemical. Hives, swelling, itching, anaphylaxis, and dizziness are all signs of food allergy.

This clearly gives you the idea that a food allergy develops when the immune system reacts to a normally harmless meal and when the body has a chemical reaction to a particular food or drink which can be called as food intolerance. So, take the necessary precaution. It is highly recommended to read the food labels to avoid items that can trigger allergic reactions.

NO I Ayesa Gay A. Bejerano, RND

Food Allergy vs. Sensitivity: What’s the Difference?

https://www.healthline.com/health/allergies/food-allergy-sensitivity-difference#food-sensitivities

Food allergy vs. food intolerance: What’s the difference?

https://mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/food-allergy/expert-answers/food-allergy/faq-20058538

Food allergy and intolerance

https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/food-allergy-and-intolerance