Food intolerances are a major contributor to chronic health issues, often going undiagnosed or misattributed to other conditions. Unlike food allergies, which trigger an immediate immune response, food intolerances lead to delayed, ongoing symptoms that can significantly impact overall well-being. These reactions occur due to the body’s inability to properly digest or process certain foods, often resulting in inflammation, gut dysfunction, and immune system imbalances.
The symptoms and illnesses linked to food intolerances are wide-ranging and can affect multiple systems in the body. Some of the most common include:
Digestive Issues:
Bloating, gas, and abdominal pain
Diarrhea, constipation, and irregular bowel movements
Acid reflux and heartburn
Nausea and vomiting
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Skin Problems:
Eczema, psoriasis, and chronic rashes
Hives and itching
Acne and rosacea
Dry, flaky, or inflamed skin
Neurological and Cognitive Symptoms:
Headaches and migraines
Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
Dizziness and balance issues
Fatigue and low energy levels
Anxiety, depression, and mood swings
Respiratory Symptoms:
Sinus congestion and post-nasal drip
Chronic cough and throat irritation
Asthma and difficulty breathing
Increased seasonal allergies
Musculoskeletal and Pain Conditions:
Joint pain and stiffness
Muscle aches and cramps
Fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndromes
Immune System and Inflammatory Disorders:
Chronic inflammation
Autoimmune diseases (e.g., Hashimoto’s, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus)
Frequent infections and a weakened immune response
Metabolic and Hormonal Imbalances:
Blood sugar fluctuations and insulin resistance
Weight gain or unexplained weight loss
Thyroid dysfunction
Hormonal imbalances, including PMS and irregular menstrual cycles
Because food intolerances often create a cycle of inflammation and gut permeability (leaky gut), they can contribute to long-term health complications if left unaddressed. Identifying and eliminating trigger foods through an elimination diet or specialised testing can be key steps in restoring health and preventing chronic illness.
Key food intolerances include:
Histamines: Found in aged, fermented, and processed foods; excess can lead to headaches, hives, digestive issues, and allergic-like reactions, especially in those with low DAO enzyme levels.
Salicylates: Found in plant foods and some medications; may cause inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and histamine release.
Oxalates: Present in certain plants; excess can lead to mineral depletion, inflammation, and kidney stones.
Lectins: Proteins in beans, legumes, and nightshades that may contribute to leaky gut and autoimmune reactions.
Gluten: Can cause celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and chronic inflammation through molecular mimicry.
Casein: A dairy protein linked to allergies, inflammation, and autoimmune issues.
Yeast: May cause allergies, Candida overgrowth, and inflammation.
FODMAPs: Fermentable carbohydrates that may worsen IBS, SIBO, and digestive discomfort.
To manage these intolerances, an elimination diet may help. Therapies such as acupuncture, homeopathy and cupping can also help reduce symptoms. Working with a natural health practitioner and addressing gut health, microbiome balance, and enzyme production are crucial for recovery.
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