Do you know the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance? While a food allergy 
comes on suddenly and happens each time you eat a certain food (even a very small amount can be life-threatening), a food intolerance reaction comes on gradually (up to 72 hours following eating or consuming the allergen) and is not life-threatening, but very uncomfortable, often causing chronic conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), migraines, chronic fatigue, psoriasis, rosacea, eczema, ADD/ADHD, unexplained weight gain and more.
While individuals can develop intolerances to a very wide array of substances, such as food, food additives, environmental toxins, herbs and more, we have outlined some of the “most common” food intolerances below. Do you frequently suffer from upset stomach, nausea, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, vomiting or heartburn after eating certain foods? If so, we urge to you to learn more and keep reading.
Lactose Intolerance
Lactose is a sugar found in milk and milk products. The small intestine—the organ where most food digestion and nutrient absorption take place—produces an enzyme called lactase. Lactase breaks down lactose so it can be digested. Lactose intolerance is a condition in which people have digestive symptoms—such as bloating, diarrhea, and gas—after eating or drinking milk or milk products due to an inability to produce lactase.
Gluten Intolerance
Recent research estimates that 18 million Americans suffer from non-Celiac gluten sensitivity, or gluten intolerance. When gluten, a protein found in wheat products, is ingested by individuals who are gluten intolerant, the lining of the small intestine is irritated and damaged, preventing the body from absorbing all of the food’s nutrients and resulting in gas, bloating, constipation and other forms of gastrointestinal distress.
If you think you may be suffering from lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance or another food intolerance, learn more about ALCAT testing in Tulsa, OK. The Antigen Leukocyte Antibody Test, or ALCAT Test, is a blood test designed to detect and identify environmental and food intolerances so you can look and feel better than ever before!
Schedule your free consultation today by calling 918-948-9639 or email info@3.23.104.40.
