Food intolerances to certain foods might seem like the latest 21st-century fad. Nonetheless, the fact is that people have been suffering from these conditions for centuries. But it’s only within the last decade or so that doctors and health professionals have invested in more research about them. This has led to more public awareness being created.
Fortunately, those affected no longer have to suffer in silence as there are now various ways to keep these conditions in check.
Causes of Food Intolerances:
- Absence of the enzyme needed to fully digest a certain food – the most common example of this is lactose
- IBS – Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a chronic condition that causes cramping, constipation and diarrhea
- Sensitive to certain food additives – this is the case with sulfites, which are used in canned goods, dried fruits and wine and may lead to asthma attacks in some people.
- Celiac disease – because of its link to the immune system, this condition has some of the marks of a true food allergy. However, the gastrointestinal nature of the symptoms means that people with celiac disease are mostly suffering from an intolerance to gluten.
- Psychological factors and stress – while more research is still required in this respect, sometimes even the thought of a certain food can put us off. This suggests a psychological reason behind some food intolerances.
Symptoms of Food Intolerances:
Unlike food allergies, food intolerance symptoms may vary from one person to another as well as depend on the type of food. These are the most common ones experienced by sufferers:
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- Abdominal pain and cramps
- Bloating and gas
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea
- Acid reflux
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Rashes or hives
- Depression or anxiety
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Asthma
- Sinus Infections
Naturally, the best way to detect a food intolerance would be to consult a doctor or qualified nutritionist. An elimination diet is often suggested as the primary way of confirming food intolerances.
Could it Just be Stress?
Naturally, we’re not saying that all food intolerances are in your head, however, experts have claimed that in certain cases, they could be linked to high levels of stress and anxiety. This is why it’s so important to take care of our mental heatlh as well as our physical health, too. Try keeping your stress levels down by setting aside some time in the day to do things you enjoy. This could be catching up on your favorite show, taking a walk in nature, or even playing slot games at a new online casino. For the latter, comparison sites help players with honest reviews of each operator. In addition, you can play demo games and when you are ready to play, a great bonus is available to claim. Assisting veteran and new gamers in avoiding the hassle of locating the best available.
Take Enzymes
In order to prevent a negative reaction, taking enzymes in pill form is possible. For example, people who are lactose intolerant may choose to take lactase enzyme pills such as Lactaid. It helps them break down and digest foods containing lactose.
Substitute
Probably the most practical way to manage a food intolerance is to swap out the offending food with an alternative that is easier to digest and won’t cause you any harm.
Lactose and Dairy Products – Soy, Rice, or Nut Milk or Lactose-free Products
Gluten – Gluten-free products and whole grains such as quinoa, buckwheat, and oats
Caffeine – Green, Red, or White Teas have a much lower caffeine content
What about Food Allergies?
Unlike the case with food intolerances, people suffering from food allergies would do well to avoid the offending food altogether. This way, it’s unlikely to cause them distress even in the smallest of amounts.
Food allergies are usually detected early on in childhood, whereby your doctor will prescribe specific medication (such as an EpiPen). Notably, it should always be carried around with you.
Always make sure to properly read food labels in the supermarket before buying certain products. Also, make it a point to inform chefs of your allergy when dining out – even at fast-food eateries and coffee shops.
Some people also wear a medical ID bracelet which lists relevant information about their food allergy in case of accidents or emergencies.