There's actually a pretty big difference.
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| | Food allergies are no joke. Every 10 seconds, someone ends up in the ER because of one. And more than half of U.S. adults with food allergies have experienced a serious reaction. Food allergies range from mild to severe, but they always carry the risk of anaphylaxis. (Eek!) | | Many people think they have a food allergy, but often their symptoms actually stem from a food intolerance or sensitivity. | | Yes, there is a difference between these two conditions. And knowing how to tell them apart may make a difference for your health and safety. Today, Lindsay Mahar, Wellos Coach and registered dietitian, is back to clear up this common misunderstanding. | | | | Hope this helps!
Ginger Wojcik
Newsletter Editor, Healthline |  | | Written by Ginger Wojcik
April 2, 2024 • 3 min read | | | | | Powered by | |  | |  | | | Q: | What's the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance? | | | A: | Food allergies and food intolerances (also called food sensitivities) are sometimes confused because they can cause similar digestive issues — but there are some important differences. While both can lead to symptoms such as gas, bloating, and diarrhea, a true food allergy is an immune response and can be life threatening. With a food allergy, even the tiniest microscopic amount can trigger your immune system and lead to swelling, hives, and anaphylaxis.
Food intolerances, on the other hand, almost always cause digestive symptoms. Food intolerances can cause discomfort, but they aren't life threatening. They often happen when your body lacks a certain enzyme or has trouble digesting certain additives. You may even be able to tolerate a small amount of that food.
So, how can you know which one you actually have? Since there can be overlapping symptoms, it may be a good idea to talk with an expert.
To get a food allergy diagnosis, you'll want to visit your doctor or an allergy specialist. They can use certain tests, such as a blood test, a skin test, or an oral food challenge, to help diagnose the allergy.
Unfortunately, there are no reliable tests that can diagnose food intolerances. The food sensitivity tests currently available are not supported by scientific evidence. It may be helpful to keep a food journal, where you document what you eat and any accompanying symptoms, to help identify the offending food. Working with a professional can also help you understand your symptoms better. | |  | | Written by Lindsay Mahar
Wellos Coach and Registered Dietitian | | | Wellos optimizes your nutrition and lifestyle by helping you make changes that are easy to manage. Every member is different, and Wellos provides tools and tracking built around the outcomes you want to achieve. | | Wellos is a sister brand of Healthline. | | | | | | | Act fast | | | | | | |  | | Benadryl Allergy Ultratab Tablets | | Benadryl is approved to treat the symptoms of respiratory allergies such as hay fever. But it's often used off-label to treat symptoms of food allergies, such as hives, itching, and rash. Always follow proper dosing and be aware that a main side effect of Benadryl is sleepiness. | | | | Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline's or Optum Store's vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Store are owned by RVO Health. | | | | | | | | | | | |  | | Wellos is a sister brand of Healthline. | | | | Wellos provides health tracking, personalized insights, physician-backed resources, and so much more to help you achieve lasting results. Start your 14-day free trial now! | | | | | | | | | | | What we're digesting | | 🍊 10 superfoods to try if you have type 2 diabetes. Hello, fiber and protein! | | 💊 The best personalized vitamin subscription services. If you take a lot of vitamins and supplements, this type of service could be a big help. | | ☠️ What are the leading causes of death in the U.S.? No. 1 has a lot to do with your diet. | | 🍸 Why does drinking this put you at risk of colorectal cancer? Turns out it's super hard on your digestive system. | | | Thanks for reading! I had an oyster feast with some friends last weekend, and it was so fun and delicious I might have to make it a regular occasion. Have you eaten anything fabulous lately? Tell us about it at nutritionedition@healthline.com! (Heads-up: We might use your response in an upcoming edition.) | | | Until next time, |  | Take care of yourself, and we'll see
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