It’s believed that nearly half of everyone living in the UK today has a food sensitivity. Yet, despite the huge number of sufferers, the world of allergies and intolerances is relatively uncharted. Not only do many people not understand why they are suffering, but they become so habituated to their conditions that they neglect to seek help. What’s more, those who do seek out more information often find themselves unable to access the resources that they need. The support simply has not been there – and this is something we are hoping to change.
So, what are food allergies and food intolerances?
Food allergies and food intolerances are caused by different responses in the body, yet both have the ability to seriously impact the daily lives of sufferers. So, what actually are they? In essence, food intolerances are a digestive system response, while food allergies are an immune system response. While food intolerances occur when a type of food irritates the digestive system or cannot be properly digested, food allergies are caused by the body mistakenly confusing food with something harmful. In the latter case, the reaction is often much more severe.
What causes food allergies and intolerances?
Food allergies and food intolerances cover a large spectrum – from the root cause to the symptoms. Be it genetic predisposition, environmental factors, immune function, the aftermath of illness, lifestyle choices and more, all sorts of elements can have an impact on how your body reacts to certain foods. Similarly, the symptoms can differ in extremis from person to person, with some people experiencing short bouts of intense discomfort and pain, and others experiencing mild yet prolonged irritation. While there are all sorts of food ingredients and groups that can trigger a reaction, lactose is the most common food intolerance, and shellfish, nuts, fish, eggs, peanuts, and milk are the most common food allergies.
Diagnosing food allergies and food intolerances
The trouble is, even though we know how to define what a food allergy or a food intolerance is, it’s been much more difficult to diagnose which food or foods are responsible for triggering the immune or digestive systems on an individual basis. Complex as they are, food intolerances have been particularly hard to diagnose, as the symptoms are sometimes mild or seemingly innocuous. In fact, sometimes, the sufferer is so used to their symptoms that they have essentially become “normal”. In short, they simply don’t remember what it’s like to live without them. With the lack of support from medical bodies, they live with the symptoms, rather than tackling the causes.
Why food allergy and food intolerance tests are important
Many health issues as a result of food allergies and intolerances occur without the person being fully aware. This is a problem. Some people experience food sensitivities or allergies in their childhood and for others, these symptoms will occur suddenly and much later on in life. If the symptoms have been ignored, or just not identified, this can lead to much bigger problems down the line. Ultimately, there will be a point when the body can no longer deal with the strain anymore and becomes much more susceptible to fatigue, viruses and general ill-health.
Book your food allergy and food intolerance test
Combating the gap in the study of nutrition and the availability of food allergy and intolerance testing, we have developed a series of tests that allow individuals to really understand their own needs. As much as each individual thinks, behaves and reacts differently, so too do our organs and internal systems. This is why, as every individual is unique, so too must be the assessment and treatment. With our food allergy and intolerance tests, we can look at all the symptoms so as to begin identifying the cause. To find out more information and take the first steps to a happier, healthier and more comfortable life, buy your test or get in contact with us today.