The Difference Between Food Allergies and Food Intolerances

Why it Matters

Food reactions in kids and adults are on the rise in San Diego. Parents, caregivers and individuals alike may notice unpleasant symptoms after eating certain foods, but not all reactions are created equal.

Understanding the difference between a food allergy and a food intolerance is key. Food allergies involve the immune system and can be life threatening if left untreated, while intolerances affect digestion and though uncomfortable are rarely dangerous.

Misidentifying the two can lead to wrong treatments, unnecessary stress or missed opportunities for early intervention. Empower Allergy Treatment provides comprehensive care and education so families and patients can correctly identify and manage these conditions.

Our Services and Programs are designed to guide both kids and adults through testing, diagnosis and safe treatment options. Early recognition and expert guidance not only improves safety but also quality of life for those living with dietary sensitivities or allergies.

What is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy is when the immune system mistakes a harmless food protein for a threat. The body reacts by releasing histamine and symptoms range from mild to severe. Common allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish and shellfish.

Symptoms can appear within minutes to hours and may include hives, swelling, itching, vomiting, diarrhea or respiratory issues like wheezing. Severe reactions can lead to anaphylaxis – a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

Food allergies can affect anyone but kids are often diagnosed earlier due to exposure during critical developmental years. At Empower, we emphasize early detection and proper management to reduce the risk of severe reactions. Learn more about our team and expertise on the About Us page where we highlight our commitment to comprehensive allergy care for kids and adults.

What is a Food Intolerance?

A food intolerance is different from a true allergy. Instead of the immune system reacting, food intolerance affects the digestive system. For example, lactose intolerance is when the body can’t digest lactose and causes bloating, diarrhea or abdominal discomfort.

Other common intolerances are gluten sensitivity or reactions to certain food additives. Unlike allergies, intolerances are rarely life threatening but can impact daily comfort and overall quality of life.

Symptoms develop gradually and may vary in severity depending on the amount of food eaten. Since intolerances don’t involve the immune system, reactions are usually predictable and dose dependent. Understanding the difference between allergies and intolerances is key to avoid unnecessary restrictions and find the right treatment.

Allergies vs Intolerances

Knowing the differences helps families and patients make informed decisions about testing and management. Here’s a breakdown:

• Immune Response: Allergies trigger the immune system; intolerances don’t.
• Severity: Allergic reactions can be life threatening; intolerances are uncomfortable.
• Timing: Allergies can appear immediately or within hours; intolerances may be delayed.
• Symptoms: Allergies often include hives, swelling or anaphylaxis; intolerances cause digestive upset.
• Testing: Allergies require professional testing like Skin Prick Testing or Blood Testing. Intolerances may need elimination diets or other digestive focused assessments.

By understanding these differences patients avoid misdiagnosis and develop effective strategies. Kids with ambiguous symptoms for example may benefit from both allergy testing and evaluation for intolerances to ensure their safety and comfort.

Signs & Symptoms to Watch For

Identifying food reactions early is key:

Allergic Reactions:

• Hives, swelling or rash
• Vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps
• Respiratory symptoms: coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath
• Severe reactions: dizziness, fainting or anaphylaxis

Intolerance Reactions:

• Bloating, gas or cramps
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Headaches or fatigue after certain foods

It’s not always easy to tell the difference but careful observation, symptom tracking and professional guidance are crucial. Empower provides families with a comprehensive Avoidance Planning approach to safely identify and manage triggers.

Testing & Diagnosis

Proper diagnosis is key. For food allergies Empower uses:

• Skin Prick Testing: Quick, minimally invasive test for multiple allergens.
• Blood Testing: Measures specific antibodies to confirm allergies.
• Oral Food Challenge: The gold standard for confirming tolerance or allergy in a controlled environment.
• ‍Lung Function Testing: For patients with asthma or respiratory symptoms triggered by food.

For intolerances tests include elimination diets, enzyme function evaluations and symptom tracking. Proper testing ensures correct diagnosis and prevents unnecessary dietary restrictions while guiding treatment.

Food Allergies vs Intolerances

Managing these conditions requires awareness and planning. For allergies strict avoidance is key, along with having emergency plans in place. Families should communicate openly with schools, caregivers and children themselves to ensure awareness and safety.

For intolerances adjustments may be more flexible. Some foods can be eaten in smaller amounts or substituted with alternatives. Meal planning, label reading and understanding hidden ingredients are essential strategies.

Empower’s programs teach families how to do this safely and effectively. Both allergies and intolerances benefit from ongoing monitoring and professional guidance.

Food Allergy Treatment

Modern treatments go beyond avoidance:

• Oral Immunotherapy: Gradual exposure to allergens under medical supervision to build tolerance.
• Sublingual Immunotherapy: Small doses of allergens placed under the tongue for immune adaptation.
• Xolair (omalizumab): Medication to reduce severe allergic reactions.

Combined with emergency preparedness these treatments reduce risks, improve safety and quality of life. Empower specialists create individualized plans based on age, allergen type and risk level.

Food Intolerance Treatment

Less severe but still requires attention to comfort:

• Dietary adjustments including substitutions or elimination of trigger foods
• Enzyme supplementation for conditions like lactose intolerance
• Gradual reintroduction under guidance to gauge tolerance

These measures combined with professional support allow children and adults to eat varied diets safely.

Parent and Caregiver Tips

• Monitor and document symptoms regularly.
• Communicate clearly with teachers, babysitters and caregivers.
• Teach children to recognize early signs and communicate their needs.
• Prepare action plans for emergencies.

Empower Allergy Treatment works with families to create practical strategies for daily life.

Know the Difference to Protect Health

Now you know the difference between food allergies and food intolerances. Make safe informed decisions. Proper diagnosis, testing and personalized treatment plans mean better life, less risk and more peace of mind.

Whether it’s Oral Immunotherapy, avoidance planning or specialized testing Empower Allergy Treatment can help children and adults in San Diego. Contact us today to learn more about our Services and Programs.