megram - Index

megram - magazine - Index

Food Allergy or
Food Intolerances
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?
Two Shakespearean actors try to impersonate long-lost
relatives, to claim an inheritance from a wealthy matron.
Sept. 16 - 20, Sept. 23 - 27
Due West Magazine • Page 50 • Fall 2008
common symptoms of
a food allergy are:
• Skin problems (e.g., hives; tissue
swelling, especially of the face and
around the mouth; itching and reddening
of the skin; and eczema in
young children)
• Breathing problems (e.g., stuffy,
runny nose and itchy eyes; worsening
of asthma in asthmatics)
• Digestive problems (e.g., nausea,
vomiting, diarrhea)
• The most severe allergic response is
anaphylaxis, which may involve all the
above symptoms and can be lifethreatening.
What’s food intolerance?
Unlike food allergy, food intolerance
does NOT involve the immune
system. Many food intolerances are
caused by inadequate digestion,
absorption and/or processing the
food when it is eaten. As a result,
unwanted food materials may build
up and have a harmful effect.
Symptoms of food intolerance
depend on the amount of the offending
food that has been eaten. Lactose
intolerance is an example of a food
intolerance.
For most people, food is a source of
pleasure, as well as nourishment. For
those with food allergy or food intolerance,
however, eating can also be
frustrating and stressful.
What’s a food allergy?
Many foreign compounds come
into the body when food is eaten.
Some, such as germs, are harmful,
while others, such as nutrients, are