Archives in Food and Nutrition

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Editorial - Archives in Food and Nutrition (2023) Volume 6, Issue 3

Managing food intolerances: personalized approaches for better health

Jane Ogden *

Department of Psychology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK

Corresponding Author:
Jane Ogden
Department of Psychology
University of Surrey, Guildford, UK.
E-mail: J.Odeng03@surrey.ac.uk

Received: 15-May-2023, Manuscript No. AAAFN-23-107938; Editor assigned: 17-May-2023, PreQC No. AAAFN-23-107938 (PQ); Reviewed: 31-May-2023, QC No AAAFN-23-107938; Revised: 02-Jun-2023, Manuscript No. AAAFN-23-107938 (R); Published: 08-Jun-2023, DOI:10.35841/aaafn-6.3.151

Citation: Ogden J. Managing food intolerances: personalized approaches for better health. Arch Food Nutr. 2023;6(3):151

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Food intolerances are adverse reactions to certain foods that occur when the body has difficulty digesting or processing specific substances. Unlike food allergies, which involve the immune system, food intolerances are primarily a digestive issue. While food intolerances are not life-threatening, they can cause discomfort and negatively impact a person's quality of life. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, and management of food intolerances [1].

Causes of food intolerances

Food intolerances can arise from various factors, including

 

Enzyme deficiency: Some food intolerances occur due to a lack of specific enzymes needed to digest certain components of food. For example, lactose intolerance results from an insufficient production of lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose found in dairy products [2].

Chemical sensitivities: Certain foods contain natural or artificial chemicals that can trigger intolerance symptoms in sensitive individuals. Histamine intolerance, for instance, can cause reactions to foods with high histamine content, such as aged cheeses, fermented foods, and alcoholic beverages.

Food additives: Some people may be sensitive to artificial additives and preservatives commonly found in processed foods. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) and sulfites are examples of additives known to cause intolerance symptoms in some individuals. Fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols (FODMAPs) are short-chain carbohydrates found in certain foods. For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), FODMAPs can trigger gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal pain [3].

Common symptoms of food intolerances

The symptoms of food intolerances can vary widely and may manifest within a few hours or up to 48 hours after consuming the offending food. Common symptoms include:

 

Digestive issues: Bloating, gas, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal pain are prevalent digestive symptoms associated with food intolerances [4].

Nausea and vomiting: Some individuals may experience feelings of nausea or vomiting after consuming trigger foods.

Skin reactions: Food intolerances can cause skin issues like hives, rashes, or eczema in susceptible individuals.

Headaches and migraines: Intolerance to certain food compounds can trigger headaches or migraines in some people.

Fatigue: Feeling tired or lethargic after eating certain foods may be a sign of food intolerance.

Diagnosing food intolerances

Diagnosing food intolerances can be challenging because symptoms are not always immediate, and individual responses can vary. In many cases, individuals may need to undergo an elimination diet, where suspected trigger foods are removed from the diet for a period, followed by gradual reintroduction to identify potential culprits.

 

It is essential to seek the guidance of a healthcare professional or registered dietitian when attempting to diagnose food intolerances. They can provide support, create an appropriate elimination diet plan, and rule out other potential underlying health issues.

 

Managing food intolerances

Managing food intolerances involves identifying trigger foods and making dietary adjustments. Here are some strategies to manage food intolerances:

 

Elimination diet: As mentioned earlier, an elimination diet can help identify trigger foods by gradually reintroducing eliminated foods and observing reactions.

Read food labels: Be vigilant about reading food labels to avoid foods containing problematic ingredients or additives.

Keep a food diary: Keeping track of the foods consumed and any associated symptoms can help identify patterns and potential trigger foods.

Seek substitutes: Find suitable alternatives for trigger foods to ensure a balanced and enjoyable diet.

Enzyme supplements: Some individuals may benefit from enzyme supplements that aid in the digestion of specific food components, such as lactase supplements for lactose intolerance.

Consult a professional: Work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to develop a personalized management plan tailored to individual needs and preferences [5].

Conclusion

Food intolerances can cause discomfort and disrupt daily life for affected individuals. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking appropriate management strategies are crucial steps in living well with food intolerances. While it may require some adjustments and dietary modifications, managing food intolerances can lead to improved well-being and a better quality of life. If you suspect food intolerance, seek professional guidance for accurate diagnosis and personalized support

 

References

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    1. Muraro A, Roberts G, Worm M, et al. Anaphylaxis: guidelines from the E uropean A cademy of A llergy and C linical I mmunology. Allergy. 2014;69(8):1026-45.

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    2. Sicherer SH, Sampson HA. Food allergy: a review and update on epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, prevention, and management. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2018;141(1):41-58.

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    3. Higgins JP. Smartphone applications for patients' health and fitness. Am J Med. 2016;129(1):11-9.

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