Food Allergy vs Food Sensitivity [ a comparison ]

Do you know the difference between a food allergy and food sensitivity? The term food allergy is a bit of a misnomer, since with a true food allergy the immune response is rapid, often leading to anaphylactic symptoms of throat swelling, itchiness, hives, and difficulty breathing. A more accurate term is food sensitivity, where unlike an IgE immune-mediated allergy response, you immune system creates an IgG immune-mediated response. An IgG response is much subtler and slower to respond, which makes it easier to miss the connection between food and how you are feeling. Even though food sensitivity/IgG responses aren’t as dramatic or life-threatening as an allergic IgE response, it can still be life-changing for many people. While the immune system is involved in food allergies and sensitivities, there is a third type of food reaction called food intolerance, which primarily involves the gastrointestinal tract. The most well-known is lactose intolerance. In this type of food reaction, the individual does not have the lactase enzyme to break down lactose in dairy. Other common intolerances include histamine, fructose, salicylate, and sulfite. Visit us online at www.CameronWellnessAndSpa.com to learn more!