Did you know there is a difference between food allergies and food sensitivities? According to the British Allergy Foundation, Food sensitivities otherwise known as intolerances are far more common than true food allergies A food allergy can cause more severe symptoms including scratchy throat, hives, swelling and even anaphylaxis in some. But what many people don’t realize is that food sensitivities cause minor recurrent immune response ultimately damaging the gut lining. This so called “minor” reaction is actually causing major inflammation in your gut. So here are the top 7 signs that indicate you may have food sensitivities.
- Moodiness, brain fog and headaches.
- Food Cravings
- FATIGUE
- Heartburn
- Joint Pain
- Acne, dark circles under your eyes
- Gas, bloating and constipation.
If you think you may have a food sensitivity, start keeping track of the foods you eat and the symptoms you feel throughout the day. I would also recommend getting a food sensitivity blood test, not food allergy skin prick test. Many of the food sensitivity test I use allows me to see your sensitives for more than 100 different foods! It’s also important to know that food allergies are tested differently than food sensitivities. Food allergies stimulate your immune system to release IgE antibodies. This is the type that causes release of histamine and is often the most common allergy test done, although as naturopaths, we often are more interested in IgG antibodies, this is what is released with food sensitivities. It can create delayed symptoms that often make it harder for patients to associated foods with some of their symptoms. This is another reason why Food Sensitivity Testing is so important.
