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Food allergy vs. food intolerance: What's the

difference?

Products and services What's the difference between a food Advertisement

intolerance and a food allergy?
Answer From James T C Li, M.D., Ph.D.
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Physical reactions to certain foods are common, but most are
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caused by a food intolerance rather than a food allergy. A food
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intolerance can cause some of the same signs and symptoms as
a food allergy, so people often confuse the two. Policy Opportunities Ad Choices

A true food allergy affects the immune system. Even small

amounts of the offending food can trigger a range of symptoms,
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which can be severe or life-threatening. In contrast, a food
intolerance often affects only the digestive system and causes Check out these best-sellers and special
less serious symptoms. offers on books and newsletters from Mayo
Clinic Press.
If you have a food intolerance, you may be able to eat small
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amounts of the offending food without trouble. You may also be
able to prevent a reaction. For example, if you have lactose
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intolerance, you may be able to drink lactose-free milk or take
lactase enzyme pills (Lactaid) to aid digestion. Mayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance

Causes of food intolerance include:

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Absence of an enzyme needed to fully digest a food.
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Lactose intolerance is a common example.
Irritable bowel syndrome. This chronic condition can cause
cramping, constipation and diarrhea.
Sensitivity to food additives. For example, sulfites used to
preserve dried fruit, canned goods and wine can trigger
asthma attacks in people who are sensitive to food additives.

What about celiac disease?

This chronic digestive condition is triggered by eating gluten, a
protein found in wheat and other grains. Celiac disease has some
features of a true food allergy because it involves the immune
system. Symptoms often include gastrointestinal issues as well as
those unrelated to the digestive system, such as joint pain and
headaches. However, people with celiac disease are not at risk of
anaphylaxis.

If you have a reaction after eating a particular food, see your

doctor to determine whether you have a food intolerance or a food
allergy.
If you have a food allergy, you may be at risk of a life-threatening
allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — even if past reactions have been
mild. Learn how to recognize a severe allergic reaction and know
what to do if one occurs. You may need to carry an emergency
epinephrine shot (Adrenaclick, Auvi-Q, EpiPen) for emergency
self-treatment.

If you have a food intolerance, your doctor may recommend steps

to aid digestion of certain foods or to treat the underlying condition
causing your reaction.

With

James T C Li, M.D., Ph.D.

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Feb. 28, 2024

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 See also
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