Do certain foods make you sick, but you’re unsure why? Have you been feeling bloated, having diarrhea, constipation, constant headaches, and fatigue lately? There’s a possibility you might be suffering from food intolerance or food sensitivity. It mostly occurs when the foods cannot be digested properly. Consulting a healthcare professional can help you discover which meals are causing the problem. Read on to learn more bout food intolerance, types, and tips to prevent complications.
Types of food intolerance
Intolerance is primarily caused by the immune system’s sensitivity to particular proteins or compounds in food. As a result, the body can not break down certain foods. Different food and components can cause intolerance. Some types of intolerances are:
- Lactose intolerance
Several people have difficulty digesting lactose, a kind of sugar found in milk and dairy products. They can’t break down lactose because their bodies don’t make enough lactase enzymes. Bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort are possible symptoms. - Gluten intolerance
This type of intolerance causes the small intestine to be damaged by an immune reaction. Signs and symptoms of this intolerance include digestion problems, fatigue, weight reduction, and skin rashes. - Fructose intolerance
If certain natural foods make you uncomfortable, it could be fructose intolerance. This happens when your body can’t absorb fructose from fruits, vegetables, and honey. - Histamine intolerance
This type of intolerance is caused by the body’s inability to break down histamine, a compound released by the immune system. Dried fruits, fermented products, and dairy can trigger this intolerance. - Additive intolerance
Additives like MSG, sulfites, and artificial sweeteners may cause sensitivities in some people. Headaches, flushing, rashes, and digestive discomfort are some symptoms.
Several other components can also trigger intolerance. Caffeine, salicylates, amines, sulfites, and eggs are commonly known to cause intolerances in people. Stress, digestive issues, or bacterial imbalances may also influence intolerance.
Tips for managing food intolerance
Food intolerances are lifelong conditions, but they can be easily managed if you take the right steps. Listed below are some valuable tips for managing intolerance:
- Keep a journal
When recording your meals, stick to simple notes. This way, you’ll be more likely to keep up with your food journal and identify any discomfort that triggers food intolerance. Reduce the intake of these foods from your everyday meals. - Read labels
Verify food labels for any potential allergens or intolerance-causing ingredients. - Consult a health practitioner
It’s advisable to consult a healthcare practitioner if you have food intolerances. They can develop a customized meal plan that works for you. - Use supplements
Intolerance can eliminate certain food from your meals that provide vital nutrients. In that case, supplements can do the job of providing those nutrients. Consult a doctor before starting any supplements. - Exercise control
People with intolerances sometimes tolerate small amounts of trigger foods. Experiment with food portions to find a balance that minimizes symptoms. - Reduce stress
Digestive symptoms can become more severe under pressure. Exercising, meditating, or practicing yoga are examples of strain-relieving sports.
Food intolerance may be inconvenient when dining out or when no alternatives are available. However, having an intolerance is not the end of the rope. If you consult a doctor as early as possible, they can provide solutions to keep most of your symptoms at bay. Keeping a diary to identify your triggers and eliminating specific food will certainly ensure that your body stays healthy, despite the intolerance.
