Food Allergy or Food Intolerance

As the antibodies battle the 'invading' food, allergy symptoms develop. Most true allergies to foods are uncommon and problems are more likely to result from intolerance rather than allergy.

Among the symptoms of food allergy are rash or hives, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, itchy skin, shortness of breath, chest pain, swelling of the airways to the lungs and anaphylaxis.

Food intolerance, on the other hand is a digestive system response rather than an immune system response. It occurs when something in a food irritates a person's digestive system or when a person is unable to properly digest or breakdown the food. It is believed to result from sensitivities to both natural and added food chemicals.

Symptoms of food intolerance include nausea, stomach pain, gas, cramps or bloating, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, headaches and irritability or nervousness.

 

All-in-all, food allergies usually affect about 2 to 4% of adults and 6 to 8% of children. Food intolerances are much more common. In fact, nearly everyone at one time has had an unpleasant reaction to something they ate.

Most people with food allergies or intolerances will be put on an elimination diet. It may be difficult to stop eating some foods, such as those made with wheat or milk.

Fortunately, there are many foods on the market that substitute for the more common allergy-provoking foods. The WORLDFOODS products range tries to steer clear from possible allergens. Our food products range does not contain nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat and seafood. It is also free from artificial flavours, colourings and MSG. Our products are also suitable for vegans, vegetarians and coeliacs.

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