Food Allergy is when the body’s immune system reacts unusually to specific foods. Although allergic reactions are often mild, they can be very serious. Food allergies happen when the immune system mistakenly treats proteins found in food as a threat. As a result, a few chemicals are released in the body which result in the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
A food allergy is usually diagnosed by a skin prick or a blood test and in some cases, it may be diagnosed by an elimination diet.
Food Intolerance isn’t the same as a food allergy. People with a food intolerance may have symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating and stomach cramps. No allergic reaction takes place. Usually the symptoms of an intolerance occur hours after eating the food.
Please click on the link below for further information on Food Allergies and Intolerances:
Please click on the link below for further information on Testing for Food Allergies and Intolerances:
These Food Factsheets are a public service of The British Dietetic Association (BDA) intended for information only. It is not a substitute for proper medical diagnosis or dietary advice given by a Dietitian