Food Allergy or Food Intolerance, which is it?
Food allergy and food intolerance are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to two different conditions. While both conditions can cause discomfort and unpleasant symptoms, the underlying mechanisms and treatments are different. In this blog, we will explore the differences between food allergy and food intolerance.
Food Allergy
A food allergy is an immune system response to a specific food protein that the body mistakenly identifies as harmful. When the body encounters the allergen, it produces an antibody called immunoglobulin E (IgE) to fight it off. The next time the person eats that food, the IgE antibodies trigger the release of histamine and other chemicals, which cause an allergic reaction. Symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe and can include:
- Hives, rash, or eczema
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Shortness of breath or wheezing
- Abdominal pain, diarrhea, or vomiting
- Anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, a drop in blood pressure, and loss of consciousness.
Food allergies can develop at any age, but they are more common in children. The most common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, soy, and wheat. A food allergy diagnosis is made through skin tests or blood tests, and the treatment typically involves strict avoidance of the allergen and carrying an epinephrine auto-injector in case of an emergency.
Food Intolerance
Food intolerance is a non-immune response to certain foods that the body has difficulty digesting. Unlike a food allergy, food intolerance does not involve the immune system and does not cause an allergic reaction. Instead, the symptoms of food intolerance are related to the body's inability to break down or absorb certain food components, such as lactose, gluten, or food additives. Symptoms of food intolerance can include:
- Nausea, bloating, or gas
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Headache or migraine
- Skin rash or eczema
- Fatigue or joint pain.
Food intolerance can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. The most common types of food intolerance are lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and food additive intolerance. A food intolerance diagnosis is made through elimination diets, food challenges, or breath tests, and the treatment typically involves avoiding the offending food or supplementing with digestive enzymes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, food allergy and food intolerance are two distinct conditions that can cause similar symptoms but have different underlying causes and treatments. A food allergy is an immune system response to a specific food protein, while food intolerance is a non-immune response to certain foods that the body has difficulty digesting. If you suspect you have a food allergy or food intolerance, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
U-LUV Foods | Best Selling 12 Pack | Top 14 Allergen Friendly | Soft & Chewy | Clean Ingredients, Vegan, Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Nut Free, Organic, Low Sugar, Low Fat, Natural, Better | Brownie, Cherry, Mint | Lemon, Birthday, Snickerdoodle Cookies
Description
WHY U-LUV COOKIES?
Indulge in U-LUV Food Variety Pack: Unmatched Flavor and Allergen-Free Delights!
Are you craving a diverse range of delectable snacks that are both irresistibly indulgent and worry-free for your dietary needs? Look no further than the U-LUV Food Variety Pack, where you can experience an assortment of mouthwatering cookies designed to cater to every palate, especially if you have food allergies or dietary restrictions.
FLAVOR
NEW:
Lemon: Indulge your senses in the zesty delight. Each bite is a burst of sunshine, combining the tangy zest of fresh lemons with the buttery sweetness of a perfectly baked cookie.
Birthday Cake: Our Birthday Cake Cookie is a symphony of flavors, featuring the nostalgic taste of vanilla cake batter infused with colorful sprinkles that add a festive flair to every bite.
All our brownie cookies are made with real cocoa, clean ingredients, and are allergen friendly.
Classic Brownie: traditional brownie goodness in a cookie. Now you can enjoy a brownie anytime; just grab-n-go
Cherry Brownie: a favorite among those who enjoy the flavor of chocolate covered cherries.
Mint Brownie: A hint of mint chocolate makes this an exceptional cookie. Mint and chocolate; make a great couple.
Snickerdoodle: A classic favorite. A subtle hint of cinnamon that tingles your taste buds.
BENEFITS
🍪 Allergen-Free Bliss: The U-LUV Food Variety Pack is your gateway to a world of allergen-safe snacking. Each cookie in the assortment is 100% free from the top 14 major food allergens. This means you can enjoy a variety of delectable treats with complete peace of mind, even if you have specific dietary requirements.
🍪 Irresistible Flavor: When it comes to flavor, we don't compromise. Our cookies are meticulously crafted to offer unmatched taste and texture, and the Variety Pack is no exception. It includes an array of delightful cookies, each with its unique flavor profile. From the fudgy richness of our Brownie Cookies to the cool and refreshing Mint Brownie, the tangy delight of the Cherry Brownie, and the classic sweetness of the Snickerdoodle, every cookie is a masterpiece of flavor.
🍪 Worry-Free Indulgence: U-LUV Food Variety Pack proves that you don't have to worry about allergens to indulge in a variety of your favorite snacks. With this assortment, you get all the richness and flavor you crave without any compromise on food safety.
🍪 For Every Snack Lover: These cookies are not just for those with food allergies; they are for every snack lover who craves diversity in their treats. Whether you prefer the deep, chocolatey goodness of the Brownie Cookies or the cool and invigorating taste of the Mint Brownie, the tartness of the Cherry Brownie, or the timeless comfort of the Snickerdoodle, the Variety Pack has something to please every palate.
🍪 PART OF THE U-LUV FAMILY
By choosing the U-LUV Food Variety Pack, you're becoming a part of our U-LUV family. This means you're not only enjoying a diverse range of delicious, allergen-safe snacks, but you're also supporting our mission to find cures for food allergies through charitable efforts. With every cookie, you're making a difference.
NUTRITIONAL LABEL
BROWNIE, MINT BROWNIE & CHERRY BROWNIE
LEMON
BIRTHDAY CAKE