Insights in Nutrition and Metabolism

All submissions of the EM system will be redirected to Online Manuscript Submission System. Authors are requested to submit articles directly to Online Manuscript Submission System of respective journal.
Reach Us +1 (438) 806-1701

Rapid Communication - Insights in Nutrition and Metabolism (2024) Volume 8, Issue 4

Common food intolerances and how to identify them.

Jamal Mansour *

Nutrition and Metabolism Unit, Mauritius University, Mauritius

*Corresponding Author:
Jamal Mansour
Institute for Nutrition and Metabolism, Casablanca University, Morocco
E-mail: j.mansour@uca.ma

Received: 01-Jul-2024, Manuscript No. AAINM-24-140410; Editor assigned: 02-Jul-2024, PreQC No AAINM-24-140410 (PQ) Reviewed:16-Jul-2024, QC No. AAINM-24-140410 Revised:22-Jul-2024, Manuscript No. AAINM-24-140410 (R); Published:29-Jul-2024, DOI:10.35841/aainm-8.4.219

Citation: Mansour J. Common food intolerances and how to identify them. Insights Nutr Metab. 2024;8(4):219

Visit for more related articles at Insights in Nutrition and Metabolism

Introduction

Food intolerances are becoming increasingly recognized as a significant health concern, affecting many individuals worldwide. Unlike food allergies, which involve the immune system, food intolerances typically stem from the digestive system's inability to properly break down certain foods or components within them. Identifying food intolerances can be challenging because symptoms often overlap with other conditions or may appear hours after consuming the offending food. Here’s a detailed look at some common food intolerances and effective strategies to identify them [1].

One of the most prevalent food intolerances, lactose intolerance occurs due to insufficient production of lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose found in dairy products. Symptoms include bloating, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, typically appearing within 30 minutes to 2 hours after consuming dairy [2].

Gluten sensitivity, also known as non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), involves difficulty digesting gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, and headaches may arise hours to days after gluten consumption. Unlike celiac disease, gluten sensitivity does not involve the immune system [3].

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten. It damages the small intestine and interferes with nutrient absorption. Symptoms can range from gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and abdominal pain to fatigue, skin rashes, and weight loss. Diagnosis requires specific blood tests and often a biopsy of the small intestine [4].

Histamine intolerance occurs when there's an excess of histamine in the body or an inability to break it down. Histamine is found in fermented foods, aged cheeses, and certain alcoholic beverages. Symptoms include headaches, nasal congestion, hives, and digestive issues, typically appearing soon after consuming histamine-rich foods [5].

Fructose malabsorption is the inability to absorb fructose efficiently. It's commonly found in fruits, honey, and high-fructose corn syrup. Symptoms include bloating, gas, and diarrhea, often appearing shortly after consuming foods high in fructose [6].

Healthy gut bacteria facilitated by probiotics aid in the absorption of vitamins and minerals from food. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with nutrient deficiencies or malabsorption issues, ensuring better overall nutritional status [7].

Soy intolerance involves difficulty digesting proteins found in soybeans and soy-based products. Symptoms may include digestive upset, skin reactions, and respiratory issues. Identifying soy intolerance requires eliminating soy from the diet and reintroducing it to observe symptoms [8].

Egg intolerance can manifest as digestive discomfort, skin reactions like hives or eczema, or respiratory symptoms such as wheezing or nasal congestion. It's often diagnosed through an elimination diet where eggs are removed, and symptoms are monitored upon reintroduction [9].

Shellfish intolerance can lead to symptoms like hives, swelling, nausea, and vomiting shortly after consuming shellfish such as shrimp, crab, or lobster. Severe cases can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention [10].

Conclusion

Understanding and managing food intolerances requires patience and diligence. By identifying problematic foods and making informed dietary choices, individuals can significantly improve their quality of life and overall health. If you suspect you have a food intolerance, seek professional guidance to develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs and ensures nutritional balance.

References

  1. Ejaz M, Waqas R, Butt M,et al. Role of macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients in enhancing the quality of tomato. Int. J. Agron. Vet. Med. Sci. 2011;5:401-4.

    2. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  2. macro?and micro-nutrients in plants. Frontiers in Plant Science. 2021;12:665583.

    3. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  3. Ejaz M, Rehman SU, Waqas R,et al. Combined efficacy of macro-nutrients and micro-nutrients as a foliar application on growth and yield of tomato grown by vegetable forcing. Int J Agro Vet Med Sci. 2011;5(3):327–35.

    4. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  4. Doggui R, Al-Jawaldeh H, El Ati J,et al. Meta-analysis and systematic review of micro-and macro-nutrient intakes and trajectories of macro-nutrient supply in the eastern mediterranean region. Nutrients. 2021 Apr 30;13(5):1515.

    5. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  5. Hassanzadeh A, Paknahad Z, Khoigani MG. The relationship between macro-and micro-nutrients intake and risk of preterm premature rupture of membranes in pregnant women of Isfahan. Advanced biomedical research. 2016;5.

    6. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  6. Islam MD, Rahaman A, Jannat F. Assessment of micro and macro nutrients in poultry feeds available in Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Journal of Scientific Agriculture. 2017;1:264-8.

    7. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  7. Kumar A, Sen A, Upadhyay PK,et al. Effect of zinc, iron and manganese levels on quality, micro and macro nutrients content of rice and their relationship with yield. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis. 2017;48(13):1539-51.

    8. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  8. Kashif M, Rizwan K, Khan MA, et al. Efficacy of macro and micro-nutrients as foliar application on growth and yield of Dahlia hybrida L.(Fresco). International Journal of Chemical and Biochemical Sciences. 2014;5:6-10.

    9. Indexed at, Google Scholar

  9. Odewale MO, Lawal IO. Comparative study of macro and micro nutrients of vermicast. J. Forest. Res. Managem. 2018;15(3):85-94.

    10. Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref

  10. Mirzaei Heydari Mo, Kabodi S. Study the Effects of Micro-nutrients, Macro-nutrients and Plant Shading on Quantitative Traits of Tomato) Lycopersicon esculentum). Research On Crop Ecophysiology. 2020;15(2):87-95.

    11. Google Scholar

Get the App