Food Sensitivity vs. Allergies: Navigating Digestive Reactions

When it comes to digestive reactions to certain foods, it’s important to understand the distinction between food sensitivity and allergies. While they may share some similar symptoms, the underlying mechanisms and responses in the body differ.

Understanding the difference between food sensitivities and allergies is crucial for navigating digestive reactions and treatments effectively. While allergies involve an immune system response to specific proteins, sensitivities result from difficulties in digesting certain foods or substances.

Let’s explore the differences and how to navigate these digestive reactions and where you can go in Austin, TX for individualized support for your condition.

Food Allergies

A food allergy is an immunological response to a specific protein in food. When someone with a food allergy consumes the allergenic food, their immune system mistakenly identifies the proteins as harmful invaders and releases antibodies, such as IgE antibodies, to fight against them.

An individual’s immune response may vary. Common symptoms of food allergies include:

• Hives
• Itching
• Swelling
• Difficulty breathing
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• In severe cases, anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening

Food Sensitivity

Food sensitivities, on the other hand, involve a digestive response to food. They are often referred to as food intolerances and result from difficulties in digesting certain foods or substances found in them.

Unlike allergies, food sensitivities are generally milder and may manifest as digestive issues such as:

• Bloating
• Gas
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Constipation

These symptoms can occur immediately after consuming the triggering food or have a delayed onset.

Navigating Digestive Reactions

If you suspect that you have a food sensitivity or allergy, it is crucial to seek proper diagnosis and guidance from a healthcare professional such as a gastroenterologist. A GI doctor can help you identify the specific triggers through various tests, an example of which is the elimination diet.

An elimination diet involves removing suspected trigger foods from your diet for a period of time, typically a few weeks. During this time, you carefully monitor your symptoms to see if they improve. If symptoms subside during the elimination phase and return upon reintroducing the eliminated foods, it can indicate a possible food sensitivity.

Managing Food Allergies

The primary approach to managing food allergies involves avoiding the trigger foods or substances. This approach involves removing all suspected foods from your diet and gradually reintroducing them one by one to be able to identify exactly when an allergic reaction takes place. Once the allergic reaction-inducing food is identified, you simply avoid it going forward. For those with food allergies, strict avoidance is essential due to the potential for severe allergic reactions. Alternatively, an allergist may be able to test you to identity which substances you are allergic to using a prick test.

How a GI Specialist Can Help You Manage a Food Sensitivity

Managing food sensitivity involves identifying trigger foods and making dietary changes to minimize symptoms. While general strategies can be helpful, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a gastroenterologist, for personalized guidance and treatment options.

Here are some common approaches that may be recommended:

1.    Elimination Diet

An elimination diet involves removing suspected trigger foods from your diet for a certain period, typically a few weeks. Gradually reintroducing foods one at a time allows you to observe any adverse reactions and identify specific triggers. It is not uncommon for gastroenterology doctors to work with dietitians throughout the process of helping a patient manage a food sensitivity.

2.    Keeping a Food Diary

Keeping a detailed food diary can help track your symptoms and identify patterns between your diet and symptoms. Note the foods you consume and any symptoms experienced afterward. Common food sensitivities include gluten and monosodium glutamate (MSG). This information can assist your gastroenterologist in pinpointing potential trigger foods.

3.    Avoidance of Trigger Foods

Once your trigger foods are identified, it is recommended to avoid or limit their consumption. Read food labels carefully to check for hidden ingredients or potential cross-contamination. Be cautious when dining out and communicate your food sensitivities to ensure safe food preparation.

4.    Substituting Foods

Finding suitable alternatives to trigger foods can help maintain a balanced diet. There are now many alternatives for individuals with various food sensitivities. Your GI practitioner will help you experiment and make the right choices.

5.    Nutritional Support

A registered dietitian can provide personalized nutritional advice to ensure you’re meeting your dietary needs while managing your food sensitivity. They can help create a well-rounded meal plan that includes alternative sources of nutrients found in trigger foods.

6.    Probiotics and Gut Health

Probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria, may be beneficial for some individuals with food sensitivities. Discuss with your gastroenterology doctor if incorporating probiotics into your diet could be beneficial for managing your symptoms.

Food Sensitivity Treatment in Austin, TX

At Austin Gastroenterology, our board-certified gastroenterologists and advanced practitioners are highly experienced in the management of food sensitivities. We will help you navigate your daily life with food sensitivities and ensure you are getting important nutrients from your diet.

To schedule a consultation for food sensitivity management, call our GI clinic nearest you or use our online request form. We look forward to being your partner on your path toward digestive health.