Food Allergy Symptoms to Look Out For
Sometimes a feeling of uneasiness and discomfort ensues immediately after a meal. It is often thought to a result of a food allergy. In most cases however this sick feeling is a result of some food intolerance rather than a food allergy. The difference in food intolerance and an allergy is mostly noticed through the difference in timescale and severity of the symptoms.
To understand and diagnose the difference between the two it is important to know the symptoms of food allergy which affects the patient much more severely. Food intolerance symptoms may manifest themselves in a few hours time, or even a day after. In case of allergies, the onset is immediate and generally within an hour. Food allergy occurs when the immune system strikes a food protein incorrectly and leads to an overreaction by the body and production of certain chemicals.
A few of the leading symptoms which occur during food allergy are:
Skin rashes and itching
Severe diarrhea and vomiting
Stomach cramps
Skin swelling especially on tender regions like eyelids, lips and inside the mouth
Runny nose and blocked nasal tract
Inflammation of the throat, trachea and larynx
Headaches
Fatigue and dizziness
Joint pains
Hives
These are the most common food allergy symptoms that affect most adults, and it is important to visit a medical professional as soon as you experience any of these signs. In cases of food intolerance smaller degrees of similar symptoms might occur, but they usually disappear after a short while. In cases of food allergies these symptoms get even more pronounced and severe and may also lead to severe breathing problems or diarrhea. A regular food intolerance like lactose intolerance manifests itself even when a person has consumed any dairy products and results in bloating, gas, vomiting or diarrhea.
It is important to identify the concerned allergen which is causing the food allergy so that it can be avoided in the future. These symptoms need to be identified immediately since delaying treatment might lead to malfunctioning of internal systems .A few things need to be kept in mind like checking food labels when buying food items or checking with the waiter at the restaurant about the ingredients used to prepare a dish. Some patients are so vulnerable that medical practitioners even advise them to carry self-injectible epinephrine, which helps during sudden allergic attacks.
By: melvillejackson
About the Author:
To understand and diagnose the difference between the two it is important to know the symptoms of food allergy which affects the patient much more severely. Food intolerance symptoms may manifest themselves in a few hours time, or even a day after. In case of allergies, the onset is immediate and generally within an hour. Food allergy occurs when the immune system strikes a food protein incorrectly and leads to an overreaction by the body and production of certain chemicals.
A few of the leading symptoms which occur during food allergy are:
Skin rashes and itching
Severe diarrhea and vomiting
Stomach cramps
Skin swelling especially on tender regions like eyelids, lips and inside the mouth
Runny nose and blocked nasal tract
Inflammation of the throat, trachea and larynx
Headaches
Fatigue and dizziness
Joint pains
Hives
These are the most common food allergy symptoms that affect most adults, and it is important to visit a medical professional as soon as you experience any of these signs. In cases of food intolerance smaller degrees of similar symptoms might occur, but they usually disappear after a short while. In cases of food allergies these symptoms get even more pronounced and severe and may also lead to severe breathing problems or diarrhea. A regular food intolerance like lactose intolerance manifests itself even when a person has consumed any dairy products and results in bloating, gas, vomiting or diarrhea.
It is important to identify the concerned allergen which is causing the food allergy so that it can be avoided in the future. These symptoms need to be identified immediately since delaying treatment might lead to malfunctioning of internal systems .A few things need to be kept in mind like checking food labels when buying food items or checking with the waiter at the restaurant about the ingredients used to prepare a dish. Some patients are so vulnerable that medical practitioners even advise them to carry self-injectible epinephrine, which helps during sudden allergic attacks.
By: melvillejackson
About the Author:
Food Allergy Symptoms – For over 20 years, the ALCAT Test has provided both patients as well as healthcare professionals with a tool to successfully overcome a wide variety of conditions which result from chemical sensitivity and food intolerance.
The Facts About Food Allergy
For someone with a food allergy, eating or swallowing even a tiny amount of a particular food can cause symptoms such as skin rash, nausea, vomiting, cramping, and diarrhea.
Because the body is reacting to something that is otherwise harmless, this type of allergic reaction is often called a hypersensitivity reaction. Rarely, a severe allergic reaction can cause a life-threatening set of symptoms called anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock.
Although about 25% of people believe they have a food allergy, only about 2.5% of adults and about 6-8% of children, mainly younger than 6 years, have true food allergies. The rest have what is known as food intolerance an undesirable reaction to a food that does not involve the immune system.
It is easy to confuse food intolerance with food allergy because they can have similar symptoms. With food intolerance, however, you usually get only mild symptoms such as an upset stomach.
A common example of food intolerance is lactose intolerance a condition in which a person is missing a certain enzyme necessary to digest dairy proteins. The result is loose stools, gas, and nausea after consuming dairy products such as milk or cheese.
Another example of food intolerance is reaction to MSG. MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is a white-colored additive used to enhance the flavor of food. It is a fermented mixture of glutamic acid, sodium, and water and is used mainly in Asian cooking. Over the last 30 years, side effects from MSG have been related to its use in Chinese food and referred to as the Chinese restaurant syndrome.
In this syndrome, MSG was suggested as the cause of the symptoms following a Chinese meal. In 1995, a new term was coined, the MSG symptom complex, to include all the reactions that were reported to be related to MSG. These reactions are not a true food allergy, and the exact cause of the reactions is unknown.
An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an allergen, in this case a food protein.
The white blood cells produce an antibody to this allergen, called immunoglobulin E or IgE. When this antibody comes in contact with the particular food protein, it promotes production and release of certain chemicals called “mediators.” Histamine is an example of a mediator. These mediators act on various parts of the body, mainly the skin, throat, airways, intestines, and heart.
The effects of the mediators on organs and other cells cause the symptoms of the allergic reaction. Any food has the potential to trigger an allergic reaction, but a few foods account for most food allergies.
Generally, people who have allergies react to only a few foods. Occasionally a person who is allergic to one food also may be allergic to other related foods. This is called cross-reaction. People who have a history of other allergies, such as eczema or asthma, are particularly prone to having a reaction to a food. They are also more likely to have a more severe reaction.
By: Alisha Dhamani
About the Author:
Because the body is reacting to something that is otherwise harmless, this type of allergic reaction is often called a hypersensitivity reaction. Rarely, a severe allergic reaction can cause a life-threatening set of symptoms called anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock.
Although about 25% of people believe they have a food allergy, only about 2.5% of adults and about 6-8% of children, mainly younger than 6 years, have true food allergies. The rest have what is known as food intolerance an undesirable reaction to a food that does not involve the immune system.
It is easy to confuse food intolerance with food allergy because they can have similar symptoms. With food intolerance, however, you usually get only mild symptoms such as an upset stomach.
A common example of food intolerance is lactose intolerance a condition in which a person is missing a certain enzyme necessary to digest dairy proteins. The result is loose stools, gas, and nausea after consuming dairy products such as milk or cheese.
Another example of food intolerance is reaction to MSG. MSG, or monosodium glutamate, is a white-colored additive used to enhance the flavor of food. It is a fermented mixture of glutamic acid, sodium, and water and is used mainly in Asian cooking. Over the last 30 years, side effects from MSG have been related to its use in Chinese food and referred to as the Chinese restaurant syndrome.
In this syndrome, MSG was suggested as the cause of the symptoms following a Chinese meal. In 1995, a new term was coined, the MSG symptom complex, to include all the reactions that were reported to be related to MSG. These reactions are not a true food allergy, and the exact cause of the reactions is unknown.
An allergic reaction occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to an allergen, in this case a food protein.
The white blood cells produce an antibody to this allergen, called immunoglobulin E or IgE. When this antibody comes in contact with the particular food protein, it promotes production and release of certain chemicals called “mediators.” Histamine is an example of a mediator. These mediators act on various parts of the body, mainly the skin, throat, airways, intestines, and heart.
The effects of the mediators on organs and other cells cause the symptoms of the allergic reaction. Any food has the potential to trigger an allergic reaction, but a few foods account for most food allergies.
Generally, people who have allergies react to only a few foods. Occasionally a person who is allergic to one food also may be allergic to other related foods. This is called cross-reaction. People who have a history of other allergies, such as eczema or asthma, are particularly prone to having a reaction to a food. They are also more likely to have a more severe reaction.
By: Alisha Dhamani
About the Author:
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Best Irritable Bowel Syndrome Remedybest Irritable Bowel Syndrome Remedy
Irritable bowel syndrome is a disorder, which can be eased by keeping certain factors in mind. We have tried to list out few things that would be helpful to you in overcoming the problems like cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. We have a newsletter that gives a more comprehensive overview about the disorder and irritable bowel syndrome remedy options. But, here we suggest some of the basic irritable bowel syndrome treatments that would not only be helpful in helping ease the problem but also for leading a healthier life.
Most people will have experienced the feeling “butterflies” in the stomach when they are anxious. There is a proven nervous reaction in the gut that can cause a number of digestive related problems.
So, to help overcome digestive health problems and specially that of irritable bowel you need to overcome the stress, tension and problems of your life. Therefore, you need to learn a few stress management techniques, which once you start practicing should lead to a marked improvement in the IBS symptoms.
Continue reading to discover how to sign up for our Free Relieving IBS newsletter, and discover natural methods to relieve IBS.
One of the best ways to overcome stress and improve your health is to exercise regularly. Exercise boosts the metabolism, help strengthen the immune system, and also releases “happy” hormones and pain relief hormones, all of which can be helpful in treating this disorder.
Having a diet, which is high in fiber which, can prevent worsening of bloating and gassiness. Avoid having cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels, cabbage, sprouts, beans and cauliflower, dairy products, fried and junk food, smoking and alcohol, caffeine products, sucrose, citrus fruits, wheat products and carbonated drinks.
As food intolerance has been shown to play a vital role in irritable bowel syndrome by triggering the hyperactive response in the gut, it is suggested to make a list of food you are intolerant to and those foods that trigger the IBS symptoms.
Also, some of the following natural remedies may help ease the symptoms:
1) Peppermint oil – Peppermint Oil is one of the commonly used remedies for treating irritable bowel syndrome. It helps in eliminating the excess gas in the intestines. But keep in mind that the excessive dose of peppermint can result in loss of appetite and nausea, and in more extreme cases nervous system disorders, heart problems, and kidney failure. It is advisable to consult your doctor before taking peppermint oil, especially if other mediation is being taken.
2) Probotics – Probotics are friendly bacteria present in the digestive system, which act as a protective barrier for the digestive tract. They improve the immune function and help by producing Vitamin K, which is thought to help with IBS symptoms. Various studies have suggested that irritable bowel syndrome causes imbalances in the intestinal flora resulting in an over growth of gas producing bacteria. Therefore supplementing with probiotics can help restore balance.
3) Partially hydrolyzed guar gum ((PHGG)- PHGG is non gelling fiber which can be effective in reducing constipation, diarrhea and abdominal pain in people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. Various studies reveal that PHGG also increases the amount of beneficial bacteria like lactobacilli and bifidobacteria in the intestines that help in relieving irritable bowel syndrome.
Although this article only covers a few of the best irritable bowel syndrome remedy options, we hope it has helped to clarify some of the options available.
By: Susan Reynolds
About the Author:
Most people will have experienced the feeling “butterflies” in the stomach when they are anxious. There is a proven nervous reaction in the gut that can cause a number of digestive related problems.
So, to help overcome digestive health problems and specially that of irritable bowel you need to overcome the stress, tension and problems of your life. Therefore, you need to learn a few stress management techniques, which once you start practicing should lead to a marked improvement in the IBS symptoms.
Continue reading to discover how to sign up for our Free Relieving IBS newsletter, and discover natural methods to relieve IBS.
One of the best ways to overcome stress and improve your health is to exercise regularly. Exercise boosts the metabolism, help strengthen the immune system, and also releases “happy” hormones and pain relief hormones, all of which can be helpful in treating this disorder.
Having a diet, which is high in fiber which, can prevent worsening of bloating and gassiness. Avoid having cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, brussels, cabbage, sprouts, beans and cauliflower, dairy products, fried and junk food, smoking and alcohol, caffeine products, sucrose, citrus fruits, wheat products and carbonated drinks.
As food intolerance has been shown to play a vital role in irritable bowel syndrome by triggering the hyperactive response in the gut, it is suggested to make a list of food you are intolerant to and those foods that trigger the IBS symptoms.
Also, some of the following natural remedies may help ease the symptoms:
1) Peppermint oil – Peppermint Oil is one of the commonly used remedies for treating irritable bowel syndrome. It helps in eliminating the excess gas in the intestines. But keep in mind that the excessive dose of peppermint can result in loss of appetite and nausea, and in more extreme cases nervous system disorders, heart problems, and kidney failure. It is advisable to consult your doctor before taking peppermint oil, especially if other mediation is being taken.
2) Probotics – Probotics are friendly bacteria present in the digestive system, which act as a protective barrier for the digestive tract. They improve the immune function and help by producing Vitamin K, which is thought to help with IBS symptoms. Various studies have suggested that irritable bowel syndrome causes imbalances in the intestinal flora resulting in an over growth of gas producing bacteria. Therefore supplementing with probiotics can help restore balance.
3) Partially hydrolyzed guar gum ((PHGG)- PHGG is non gelling fiber which can be effective in reducing constipation, diarrhea and abdominal pain in people suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. Various studies reveal that PHGG also increases the amount of beneficial bacteria like lactobacilli and bifidobacteria in the intestines that help in relieving irritable bowel syndrome.
Although this article only covers a few of the best irritable bowel syndrome remedy options, we hope it has helped to clarify some of the options available.
By: Susan Reynolds
About the Author:
Sign up for Susan Reynolds’ free IBS newsletter – Overflowing with easy to implement methods to help you discover more about Irritable bowel syndrome remedy.
All About Food Intolerance
All About Food Intolerance
Food intolerance is becoming much more of a household phrase these days. For those who haven’t thought about it much or never had a reason to look into it, this is a basic guide to what it is, what some of the most common intolerances are, and some other related information.
Food intolerances can come from a variety of sources. For example, some people can’t tolerate citrus fruits or other acidic foods. The food intolerances that trouble most people are chemicals (such as aspartame or preservatives), natural compounds (like caffeine), wheat and gluten, and, of course, lactose.
Sometimes it’s hard to distinguish a food intolerance from a food allergy. Their symptoms can be quite similar, but actually they are completely different bodily responses. A food intolerance is a digestive system problem.
If you have a food intolerance, you might experience headaches, gastrointestinal problems, or weight gain. (Wine, cheese and chocolate are notorious headache causers.) Gastrointestinal issues can include gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, which are sometimes mistaken for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. You might also have allergy-like symptoms such as a runny nose, hives, or difficulty breathing.
Lactose intolerance is one of the most common things people suffer from. It is caused by a shortage of the lactase enzyme. Instead of digesting lactose normally, people with too little lactase can’t process milk sugars properly. When they consume dairy products, the result is fatigue, nausea, and a host of other digestive problems such as gas and bloating.
How serious is lactose intolerance? Children younger than two are especially susceptible to it. These children often need a special non-dairy formula to ensure proper nutrition. Most adults with lactose intolerance (5% of all adults in Ireland and the UK) can tolerate a tiny amount of dairy in their diets. Others can tolerate none at all.
Though more rare, foods that contain artificial preservatives, sweeteners, flavor enhancers, and colors sometimes trigger painful symptoms in people with an intolerance to such substances.
Another very common intolerance is wheat or gluten intolerance. (Gluten is a protein found in wheat.) These conditions have gotten a lot of press lately, and for good reason: gluten intolerance, also called celiac disease in its most serious form, has been linked to behavioral problems, weight gain, and even autism.
Celiac disease is an incurable condition that causes the immune system to attack a person’s own body. In this case, the autoimmune response is triggered by eating foods that contain gluten. Celiac disease can cause all of the symptoms of food intolerance, plus stunted growth and skin conditions. Left unchecked, it can eventually cause bone disease, anemia, and even cancer.
Unfortunately, gluten is found in all wheat products, and even in some products made from barley, rye, and oats. That means that people with gluten intolerance need to avoid certain alcohols, like beer. Wheat can also be found in unexpected places. It’s often used as a filler in ground meat and sausage.
There are many gluten-free and wheat-free breads, pastas, and cereals – but they’re not created equal. Just because a product is gluten-free doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe for people with wheat intolerance. Gluten-free products can contain other wheat substances. Likewise, wheat-free products might contain barley, rye, or oats.
Basically, people who suffer from a gluten intolerance must become very good label readers!
If you suspect wheat, gluten, or any other intolerance, speak with your doctor as soon as you can. They will make a firm diagnosis and give you dietary guidelines to follow.
There is a great food intolerance test on the market that I would recommend to anyone who thinks they may be affected by one or several food products. It takes the guesswork out of figuring out what is causing the problem.
Visit http://www.foodintolerancenews.com
If you find out you do have an intolerance, seek nutrition guidance, as when patients attempt to cut out the offending food group, it can cause malnourishment. For example, some people avoid dairy products altogether because of their lactose intolerance. Without a good substitute, they risk calcium deficiency.
By: Kimberly Buchanan
About the Author:
Food intolerance is becoming much more of a household phrase these days. For those who haven’t thought about it much or never had a reason to look into it, this is a basic guide to what it is, what some of the most common intolerances are, and some other related information.
Food intolerances can come from a variety of sources. For example, some people can’t tolerate citrus fruits or other acidic foods. The food intolerances that trouble most people are chemicals (such as aspartame or preservatives), natural compounds (like caffeine), wheat and gluten, and, of course, lactose.
Sometimes it’s hard to distinguish a food intolerance from a food allergy. Their symptoms can be quite similar, but actually they are completely different bodily responses. A food intolerance is a digestive system problem.
If you have a food intolerance, you might experience headaches, gastrointestinal problems, or weight gain. (Wine, cheese and chocolate are notorious headache causers.) Gastrointestinal issues can include gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, which are sometimes mistaken for Irritable Bowel Syndrome. You might also have allergy-like symptoms such as a runny nose, hives, or difficulty breathing.
Lactose intolerance is one of the most common things people suffer from. It is caused by a shortage of the lactase enzyme. Instead of digesting lactose normally, people with too little lactase can’t process milk sugars properly. When they consume dairy products, the result is fatigue, nausea, and a host of other digestive problems such as gas and bloating.
How serious is lactose intolerance? Children younger than two are especially susceptible to it. These children often need a special non-dairy formula to ensure proper nutrition. Most adults with lactose intolerance (5% of all adults in Ireland and the UK) can tolerate a tiny amount of dairy in their diets. Others can tolerate none at all.
Though more rare, foods that contain artificial preservatives, sweeteners, flavor enhancers, and colors sometimes trigger painful symptoms in people with an intolerance to such substances.
Another very common intolerance is wheat or gluten intolerance. (Gluten is a protein found in wheat.) These conditions have gotten a lot of press lately, and for good reason: gluten intolerance, also called celiac disease in its most serious form, has been linked to behavioral problems, weight gain, and even autism.
Celiac disease is an incurable condition that causes the immune system to attack a person’s own body. In this case, the autoimmune response is triggered by eating foods that contain gluten. Celiac disease can cause all of the symptoms of food intolerance, plus stunted growth and skin conditions. Left unchecked, it can eventually cause bone disease, anemia, and even cancer.
Unfortunately, gluten is found in all wheat products, and even in some products made from barley, rye, and oats. That means that people with gluten intolerance need to avoid certain alcohols, like beer. Wheat can also be found in unexpected places. It’s often used as a filler in ground meat and sausage.
There are many gluten-free and wheat-free breads, pastas, and cereals – but they’re not created equal. Just because a product is gluten-free doesn’t necessarily mean it’s safe for people with wheat intolerance. Gluten-free products can contain other wheat substances. Likewise, wheat-free products might contain barley, rye, or oats.
Basically, people who suffer from a gluten intolerance must become very good label readers!
If you suspect wheat, gluten, or any other intolerance, speak with your doctor as soon as you can. They will make a firm diagnosis and give you dietary guidelines to follow.
There is a great food intolerance test on the market that I would recommend to anyone who thinks they may be affected by one or several food products. It takes the guesswork out of figuring out what is causing the problem.
Visit http://www.foodintolerancenews.com
If you find out you do have an intolerance, seek nutrition guidance, as when patients attempt to cut out the offending food group, it can cause malnourishment. For example, some people avoid dairy products altogether because of their lactose intolerance. Without a good substitute, they risk calcium deficiency.
By: Kimberly Buchanan
About the Author:
Kimberly Buchanan has been interested and involved in various aspects of the health industry for over 10 years. She has personal experience with food intolerances and allergies as well as experience helping others discover the cause of and cure for their own intolerances, allergies, and other health related ailments (eg vitamin deficiency, weight gain).
Do IBS Products Work
These days there are a plethora of IBS products available in the market. From traditional medicine to natural remedies, the entire market seems to be flooded with IBS products these days. This being the case, the entire process of choosing the right product may seem confusing. In fact the wide choice may result in the question, do IBS products work, in our mind.
If you are someone who is often wondering as to do IBS products work, you must first of all try talking to your doctor. For instance if you want to go in for any IBS product, you must make it a point to talk to your doctor first. They would know better about the ingredients present in a particular product and give you honest advice.
Another way out for someone who is constantly bothered with the question of do IBS products work would be incorporating certain dietary and lifestyle changes. Whatever may be the IBS product you use, you must remember that they only help in getting relief from the symptoms. There is no known cure for IBS. The use of proper medication along with certain lifestyle and dietary changes is the only way in which you can find long term relief from IBS symptoms.
The first thing that you need to do is to change your dietary habits. This will help immensely in eliminating IBP symptoms. Once you stick on to a strict dietary pattern then half of the doubts that are lingering in mind as to do IBS products work, would vanish. A diet that is rich in fiber along with drinking plenty of water is in fact considered the best way to get rid of many of the IBS symptoms. You must also try and avoid eating large meals and some other food items including, chocolate, processed food, caffeine and dairy products. You must also make it a point to eating meals at regular times and chew food properly.
Those who are wondering as to do IBS products would be surprised to find that some of the answers to the question lie in making small lifestyle changes. For instance you can take time out to access the stressful factors in your life and try and over come them. Taking up a hobby or going out together with friends or family would be a good way to unwind and get rid of stress. Stress management is in fact a very big part of IBS treatment. Scientifically it has been proven that the digestive system has got a direct relation with stress levels.
By: John Howard
About the Author:
If you are someone who is often wondering as to do IBS products work, you must first of all try talking to your doctor. For instance if you want to go in for any IBS product, you must make it a point to talk to your doctor first. They would know better about the ingredients present in a particular product and give you honest advice.
Another way out for someone who is constantly bothered with the question of do IBS products work would be incorporating certain dietary and lifestyle changes. Whatever may be the IBS product you use, you must remember that they only help in getting relief from the symptoms. There is no known cure for IBS. The use of proper medication along with certain lifestyle and dietary changes is the only way in which you can find long term relief from IBS symptoms.
The first thing that you need to do is to change your dietary habits. This will help immensely in eliminating IBP symptoms. Once you stick on to a strict dietary pattern then half of the doubts that are lingering in mind as to do IBS products work, would vanish. A diet that is rich in fiber along with drinking plenty of water is in fact considered the best way to get rid of many of the IBS symptoms. You must also try and avoid eating large meals and some other food items including, chocolate, processed food, caffeine and dairy products. You must also make it a point to eating meals at regular times and chew food properly.
Those who are wondering as to do IBS products would be surprised to find that some of the answers to the question lie in making small lifestyle changes. For instance you can take time out to access the stressful factors in your life and try and over come them. Taking up a hobby or going out together with friends or family would be a good way to unwind and get rid of stress. Stress management is in fact a very big part of IBS treatment. Scientifically it has been proven that the digestive system has got a direct relation with stress levels.
By: John Howard
About the Author:
To get your complimentary IBS Treatment course, or for my personal reviews of the most effective Treatments for IBS, visit my website by clicking the links.