What is a Food Allergy?
- A food allergy is like any other allergy, except that a food protein causes the allergy instead of pollen, pet hair, or even smoke.
- Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance (in this case, a food) as harmful to the body and attacks it.
- When the substance enters the body, the immune system releases chemicals and histamines, which cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
What is Lactose Intolerance?
- Lactose intolerance is a result of the inability to digest lactose. Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products (such as ice cream, cheese, and yogurt).
- In case of ingestion of dairy products, an intolerant person may experience abdominal bloating and cramps, diarrhea, nausea and gas.
What is Gluten Intolerance?
- Gluten Intolerance is the inability to digest gluten. Gluten is a wheat protein found in products that contain wheat, rye, barley and (often) oats.
- It is also a characteristic of patients with Celiac Disease. Celiac Disease is an autoimmune disorder in the small intestine.
- Ingestion of gluten products may cause severe abdominal pain and diarrhea.
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