Many of us have had a reaction at one time in our lives to a particular food and therefore, choose to avoid the offending item. However, what many of us don't realise is the difference between what is Food Intolerance and what is a Food Allergy? Having a 'reaction' to a particular food, such as eczema, headache, upset stomach, and so on, can be attributed to being an Intolerance. This means your body can only take that food in very small doses or not at all. An intolerance is normally known to affect the digestive system. This is very unlike a Food Allergy, which directly attacks the immune system and can sometimes even be life threatening. Common food groups that can cause allergies and intolerances are Nuts, Fish/Shelfish, Cow's milk, Eggs, Wheat and even Soya.
This week marks Food Allergy and Intolerance Week and is a good time for any of you suffering with an Intolerance to get yourself tested. Most people with an allergy normally find this out as a child. An intolerance is something that can come and go in your life at any time. Here are some examples of tests you can do should you suspect you have an intolerance.
- Try an elimination diet. This means you cut out the suspected offending food and then re-introduce the food back in your diet after a 2-4 week period. If you experience a reaction then you know it is that food.
- Food Intolerance Tests can be done and normally good health centres, spas and health food stores can help. Most tests are pretty comprehensive and can test you for up to 200 well known food offenders. Try York tests if you want to go direct. They offer a brilliant testing kit and service, www.yorktest.com
- You could also see a dietician, especially if you suspect many intolerances and have weight issues.
- Finally, some catering and cooking companies also offer various food sensitivity services, try www.thecookingacademy.co.uk for tips and advice. Run by Kumud Gandhi, a well-known food scientis and chef, often they can give you cooking lessons in a variety of different areas and even offer a catering service.
