What is the difference between a food intolerance and a food allergy?

Food Intolerance

A food intolerance is a reaction to a food some time after the food has been consumed. It can manifest up to 72 hours after exposure, which can make it difficult to identify which substance caused the reaction.

People who suffer with food intolerance symptoms rarely need immediate medical attention, however the symptoms can significantly reduce their quality of life and cause long-term illness.

The symptoms for food intolerance are very wide ranging, but the most common are:

  • tummy pain

  • bloating

  • wind

  • diarrhoea

  • constipation

  • IBS

  • skin problems such as eczema

  • joint pain

Read more about intolerance reactions here.

Although not life threatening, food intolerances can and often do, lead to the sufferer feeling extremely unwell and can have a significant impact on working and social life. It is often the case that the person feels they will never get better which can adversely affect their psychological state.

Using muscle testing, I can identify which foods you are intolerant to, the frustration of not knowing which food is the problem is no more, and you can begin to manage your intolerances with much more success.

Food Allergies

A food allergy is an immune reaction to a food. It is different to other reactions that the body may have to a food. An allergy reaction is almost always immediate in its manifestation and affects health significantly. Typical immune reactions include

  • tingling or itching in the mouth

  • a raised, itchy red rash (hives) - in some cases, the skin can turn red and itch, but without a raised rash

  • swelling of the face, mouth, throat or other areas of the body

  • difficulty swallowing

  • wheezing or shortness of breath

The symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, are similar to the ones above but can lead to:

  • swollen tongue

  • breathing difficulties

  • tight chest

  • trouble swallowing or speaking

  • feeling dizzy or faint

  • collapse

  • swollen lips, swollen tongue, asthma attacks

Find out more on the NHS website here. Muscle testing cannot discriminate between allergies and intolerances so if you display any of the above symptoms when eating a particular food you are advised to seek medical help from your GP.