Food Allergies, Sensitivities, and Intolerance

 

I. So you think your child may have a food allergy?

True food allergies probably affect less than 1% of adults and perhaps about 5% of infants. One estimate suggests that approximately 7.5% of the population may be allergic or have other forms of food sensitivity.

 

II. What is the difference between an allergy, sensitivity and an intolerance?

A. Food Allergy - an adverse reaction resulting from an abnormal response of the immune system to certain foods, food ingredients, or, more specifically, the components of a food, usually proteins.

B. Food Sensitivities - the body produces an abnormal reaction (not involving the immune system) when individuals are exposed to certain foods or food ingredients.

C. Food Intolerance - food sensitivity

 

III. What are some symptoms of an Allergic Reaction to Food?

· Hives
· Tingling in the mouth
· Swelling in the tongue and throat
· Difficulty breathing
· Abdominal cramps
· Vomiting
· Diarrhea
· Eczema
· Drop in blood pressure
· Loss of consciousness, and death
· Symptoms usually appear within minutes to two hours after a person has eaten the food to which he or she is allergic

Lactose Intolerance

Some of you may be concerned about lactose intolerance. Some people are unable to digest milk sugar, called lactose. Symptoms of lactose intolerance are cramps, gas, and diarrhea after eating or drinking dairy foods. If you or your child have lactose intolerance, don't limit milk intake without checking with your physician. Milk and milk products are excellent sources of calcium, which is needed for strong bones and teeth. If you do have lactose intolerance, try these tips for including milk products in your diet:
· Drink small amounts of milk with your meals. Most people can drink less than ½ cup without symptoms.
· Try yogurt or cheese (they are easier to tolerate than fluid milk.)
· Add commercial drops such as lactaid (they break down the lactose.)
· Buy lactose reduced milk.

Source: Feeding Young Children, Purdue University Cooperative Extension Service

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