Food allergies have been prevalent for centuries, but it’s only in recent decades that they’ve received more attention.

It’s estimated that up to 20 percent of the population has some form of food sensitivity or allergy, but the symptoms can be so varied and subtle that it’s hard for people to know if they have them. To understand if you have a food allergy, you first must know what it is and how it affects your body.

What is a food allergy?

A food allergy is an immune system overreaction to a protein in a food. Your immune system mistakes a harmless food protein as a dangerous substance, resulting in an allergic reaction.

The most common food allergies are peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, milk, eggs, wheat, and soybeans. Symptoms vary from person to person and can range from mild to severe.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of a food allergy can include:.

• Hives or a rash
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Abdominal pain, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Dizziness or fainting

Symptoms of a food allergy can appear within minutes or up to several hours after eating the offending food. Severe food allergies can cause a dangerous condition called anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.

How are food allergies diagnosed?

If you suspect you have a food allergy, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. They may refer you to an allergist who will perform an allergy test. The most common tests for food allergies are skin prick tests and blood tests.

In a skin prick test, a small amount of the suspected allergen is placed on your skin, and your skin is lightly scratched or pricked. If you’re allergic to the substance, a small red bump will appear at the site within 15 minutes.

In a blood test, a sample of your blood is taken and analyzed for the presence of immunoglobulin E (IgE) antibodies that indicate an allergic reaction to a specific food.

What is a food sensitivity?

Food sensitivity, also known as food intolerance, is not the same as a food allergy. Food sensitivity occurs when your body has trouble digesting specific foods, leading to digestive problems.

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It’s estimated that as many as 70 percent of people have some form of food sensitivity.

The symptoms of food sensitivity can include:.

• Bloating or gas
• Abdominal pain or cramps
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headaches or migraines

Unlike food allergies, the symptoms of food sensitivity are delayed, and it can take several hours or even days after consuming the offending food to experience symptoms.

How are food sensitivities diagnosed?

Food sensitivity can be harder to diagnose than food allergy. There are a few testing methods, but the most common way to identify food sensitivities is through an elimination diet.

In an elimination diet, you remove common trigger foods from your diet for a set period and then slowly add them back in one at a time to see which ones cause symptoms.

If you suspect you have a food sensitivity, it’s essential to work with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to create a safe and effective elimination diet plan.

Common food allergens

The most common food allergens are:.

• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (such as almonds, cashews, walnuts, and pecans)
• Shellfish (such as shrimp, lobster, and crab)
• Fish
• Milk
• Eggs
• Wheat
• Soybeans

Tips to prevent food allergy reactions

If you have a food allergy, it’s crucial to take steps to prevent reactions. These tips can help:.

• Read food labels carefully, even if you’ve purchased the product before. Manufacturing practices can change, and allergens may be added.
• Inform servers, chefs, and hosts about your food allergy before ordering or eating. Ask about ingredients and preparation methods.
• Carry an epinephrine auto-injector (such as an EpiPen) with you at all times. Know how to use it and when to seek emergency medical care.

Tips to manage food sensitivities

With food sensitivities, the best way to manage symptoms is through dietary changes. Here are some tips to help:.

• Keep a food diary to track symptoms and identify trigger foods.
• Avoid or limit trigger foods.
• Take enzyme supplements to help digest trigger foods.
• Work with a registered dietitian to ensure your diet is nutritionally balanced and safe for you.

Conclusion

Uncovering unknown food allergies or sensitivities can be challenging, but it’s crucial to your overall health. With the right diagnosis, dietary changes, and self-care, you can live a healthy, happy, and symptom-free life.