Understanding the differences between Allergies, Food Intolerances, and Sensitivities.
Food allergies are common, affecting millions of people worldwide, especially children.
For parents, understanding allergies, food intolerances, and sensitivities can be overwhelming.
Which one is it? And what can you do about it?
In this article, we will explore the definitions, common symptoms, and simple strategies to reduce allergens and symptoms so you can help your own allergies and your children’s also.
What is the Difference Between Food Allergy, Food Sensitivity, and Food Intolerance?
I find that many parents get confused about the differences between food allergies, food sensitivities, and food intolerances, which is understandable. It can be confusing and overwhelming.
Let’s simplify it:
Food Allergy:
This involves an immediate immune response (IgE) when the body mistakenly identifies certain foods as harmful. This creates an abnormal immune response and can cause symptoms like swelling, hives, or even severe reactions like anaphylaxis.
Food Sensitivity:
Often confused with food intolerance, food sensitivity involves a delayed immune response (IgG). Some people experience allergy-like symptoms (rashes, asthma, stomach issues, migraines, etc. Identifying and eliminating the triggering food can improve these symptoms.
Food Intolerance:
Unlike food sensitivities, food intolerance does not involve the immune system. It happens when the body can't digest certain foods properly, often due to a lack of specific enzymes. An example is lactose intolerance, where the body can't break down milk sugar, leading to digestive problems.
Common Health Conditions link to food allergies and intolerances
Did you know these common health conditions are often associated with food allergies and intolerances?
Eczema in children is often linked to food allergies and intolerances. When a child's immune system reacts to certain foods, it can trigger eczema flare-ups.
Common trigger foods can include:
cow's milk
eggs
soy
wheat
nuts
shellfish
Asthma is often also linked to food allergies and intolerances, particularly in children. Certain foods can trigger allergic reactions in the body, leading to inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which are characteristic features of asthma. Common trigger foods include:
cow's milk
eggs
peanuts
tree nuts
shellfish
soy
wheat
*Additionally, food additives and preservatives may also exacerbate asthma symptoms in some individuals.
Hay fever and sinusitis often indicate there may be a food allergy and intolerance. When a child eats the food that they are allergic to or have an intolerance to, the immune system can trigger inflammation in the nasal passages and sinuses, leading to symptoms of hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and sinusitis. Common trigger foods for these conditions include:
cow's milk
eggs
peanuts
tree nuts
shellfish
soy
wheat
Similar to asthma, food additives and -preservatives may exacerbate symptoms.
Managing Allergies Nutritionally: Tips for You and Your Children
Managing allergies, whether for yourself or your children, can be a daunting task, especially when considering the nutritional aspect. The good news is that understanding how nutrition plays a role in managing allergies can have an major impact in reducing the symptoms.
Here are some points to help with allergies:
Avoid Known Allergens:
The best way to manage food allergies is to avoid the trigger foods. Some of the top 14 food allergens may be a known trigger. The 14 allergens are:
Celery
Cereals containing gluten (such as wheat, barley and oats)
Crustaceans (such as prawns, crabs and lobsters)
Eggs
Fish
Lupin
Milk
Molluscs (such as mussels and oysters)
Mustard
Peanuts
Sesame
Soybeans,
Sulphur dioxide and sulphites
Tree nuts (such as almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, brazil nuts, cashews, pecans, pistachios and macadamia nuts).
However, there are other foods and environmental allergens that may also be affecting you or your child's health. Elimination diets and Food allergy testing can help to identify these foods.
2. Gut Health:
Supporting and improving gut health is key to improving the immune system and allergies. Did you know that 70% of our immune system is housed in our gut?
The good news is, if your reaction or your child’s reaction is not severe, (not anaphylactic) improving overall health, particularly gut health through diet and specific nutritional support, may help. An elimination diet, which removes known allergens to heal the gut, can be beneficial. This diet typically lasts 3-4 weeks, but working with a naturopath is advised to guide you on this path.
3. Microbiome Diet:
This diet removes allergens and inflammatory foods like gluten, dairy, eggs, and processed foods to support gut health. It includes digestive enzymes and probiotics to restore gut microflora, aiming to reduce inflammation and balance the immune system.
Guidance with this diet is also recommended as children are often best treated through nutrition first, before considering supplements.
Managing Allergies with Herbs & Supplements
There are a number of natural remedies for allergies that can help improve the immune system as well as reducing symptoms. Here are just some remedies that may help:
Bromelain:
This enzyme is found in pineapple and has potent anti-inflammatory activity. It may help regulate the immune response, reduce swelling and improve breathing.
Ginger:
Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and as well as being effective in digestive issues, it can have anti-histamine effects. Drinking ginger tea or adding ginger to your cooking are simple ways to reap the benefits of this herb.
Quercetin:
Quercetin has anti-inflammatory properties as well as the ability to stabilize mast cells, which are key players in the allergic response due to the release of histamine.
Quercetin is found in the following foods:
Fruits: Apples, berries, grapes, and citrus fruits
Vegetables: Onions, kale, broccoli, and tomatoes
Herbs: Dill, coriander and capers
Echinacea:
Echinacea is a well known beneficial herbal remedy known for boosting the immune system. It’s often used to prevent or treat colds, but may also help with regulating the immune system and reducing allergies.
Creating an Allergy-Friendly environment
If you or a family member has allergies, looking at the home environment is one way to reduce allergy symptoms.
Here are some key areas to focus on:
1. Reduce Indoor Allergens:
Dust Mites:
Use allergen-proof mattress and pillow covers, wash bedding weekly in hot water, and keep humidity levels low.
Pet Dander:
Keep pets out of bedrooms, bathe them regularly, and clean pet bedding frequently.
Mold:
Fix leaks promptly, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and clean moldy surfaces with appropriate cleaners.
Pollen:
Keep windows closed during high pollen seasons, use air purifiers with HEPA and carbon filters, and shower after being outdoors. Avoiding hanging washing outside on high pollen days to avoid exposure.
2. Improve Air Quality:
Air Purifiers:
Invest in high-quality air purifiers for your home, especially in bedrooms and living areas especially one with HEPA and carbon filter.
Ventilation:
Ensure proper ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms to reduce humidity and prevent mold growth.
Avoid Smoke:
Prohibit smoking indoors and avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.
3. Clean Regularly:
Vacuuming:
Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter to reduce dust and allergens.
Dusting:
Use damp cloths to dust surfaces to prevent stirring up allergens.
Declutter:
Reduce clutter where dust can accumulate.
4. Manage Outdoor Allergens:
Yard Maintenance:
Keep lawns mowed, remove leaves and debris, and avoid outdoor activities during peak pollen times.
Protective Gear:
Wear masks and sunglasses when doing yard work to reduce exposure to allergens.
5. Allergen-Free Zones:
Bedroom:
Create an allergen-free sanctuary by keeping the room clean and free from pets, carpets, and heavy drapes.
Kitchen:
Store food in airtight containers to prevent pests, and clean surfaces regularly to avoid mold and mildew.
By implementing some small changes, you can begin to create a healthier environment minimizing exposure to allergens and helping to manage allergy symptoms effectively.
Understanding the differences between food allergies, sensitivities and food intolerances is important when considering a holistic approach to your healing or that of your children.
Nutrition, specific herbal remedies and changes in the environment are all important treatment considerations when reducing not only symptoms of allergies but also exposure.
By implementing these strategies, you can create a safer and healthier space for you and your family, whilst minimizing allergen exposure and reducing associated symptoms.
*If you or your child suffer with allergies and are looking for further support, please get in touch with a Complimentary call to discuss how I can help.
