Do you break out in a rash after enjoying a plate of shrimp? Does eating ice cream give you a stomach ache? You may suffer from a food allergy or a food intolerance. The two problems are not the same. It’s important to understand the difference and know what triggers your body’s reactions.

· A Food Allergy is a protective reaction by the body’s immune system to substances it identifies as a foreign and hostile. To counter the perceived unfriendly “invasion” antibodies are released. Symptoms of an allergy, can appear in minutes, hours or even days after the ingestion of the triggering food component. They include itchy skin, hives, gastrointesinal disturbances, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing, chest pain, and whole-body shock involving severe swelling and lowered blood pressure.

· Allergies are a serious problem and can even be life threatening. Any amount of an allergen must be avoided. As little as 1/5000 of a teaspoon can cause a strong reaction. Cross contamination from using the same cutting surface or utensils for offending substance and a non-offending one for example can lead to an allergic reaction.

· The most common foods that prompt an allergic response are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nut (walnut, cashew, etc.), fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat.

· A Food Sensitivity or Intolerance is a reaction of the metabolic system to a particular food that interferes with body’s ability to digest it. The most common signs of sensitivity are nausea and vomiting; stomach pain, gas, cramps, bloating and heartburn; diarrhea; headaches, and irritability or nervousness.

· Many people cannot tolerate the lactose found in dairy products and gluten, which is a component of grains such as wheat, rye, and barley, are two of intolerances.

· Intolerances are usually treatable and controllable. The easiest way to deal with them is to avoid eating the offending ingredients.

· Diagnosis of allergies and sensitivities requires medical testing.

· Allergies and sensitivities can impact your health because healthy foods may have to be eliminated from your diet. Work with your doctor or a nutritional expert to develop a balanced eating plan that’s right for you.

Information provided by Judy Dodd, MS, RD, LD, Giant Eagle Corporate Nutritionist.  To get more of her wellness advice click on the Healthy Living tab at www.gianteagle.com 

Get more facts about food allergies and sensitivities at WebMD, provided in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic