Food intolerances are common digestive issues that can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life. Unlike food allergies, which involve the immune system, food intolerances occur when the body has difficulty digesting certain foods. This can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms, primarily affecting the stomach and digestive tract.
What Are Food Intolerances?
Food intolerance is a broad term that refers to an adverse reaction to food, which occurs when the digestive system is unable to break down certain components in food. The most common types of food intolerances involve lactose, gluten, fructose, and certain food additives like sulfites.
Lactose Intolerance: This occurs when the body lacks sufficient lactase, an enzyme needed to digest lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. As a result, undigested lactose passes into the colon, where it is fermented by bacteria, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach cramps.
Gluten Intolerance (Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity): Individuals with gluten intolerance experience symptoms similar to celiac disease, such as bloating, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain, but without the immune response that characterizes celiac disease. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.
Fructose Intolerance: Fructose is a sugar found in fruits, vegetables, and honey. Individuals with fructose intolerance may have difficulty absorbing this sugar, leading to bloating, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort after consuming foods high in fructose.
Food Additive Intolerances: Some people react adversely to food additives such as sulfites, which are used as preservatives in foods like wine, dried fruits, and processed meats. Symptoms can include stomach pain, headaches, and asthma-like symptoms.
This story is from the September 2024 edition of Health Vision.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the September 2024 edition of Health Vision.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
The Rise of Clean Beauty and Its Impact on Consumer Choices
In recent years, the beauty industry has experienced a significant transformation with the emergence of \"clean beauty.\"
How to Manage High Blood Pressure for Optimal Eye Health
High blood pressure can have a significant impact on eye health, but with proper management, you can protect your vision and overall health. A combination of a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and regular eye check-ups can help keep your blood pressure in check and preserve your eyesight.
Ayushman Bharat: How India's Largest Health Insurance Scheme Is Transforming Rural Healthcare
India has one of the largest populations in the world, and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all citizens is a tremendous challenge.
ARADHANA ORTHOPEDIC HOSPITAL Introduces Shivamogga's First Fully-Automated Robotic Joint Replacement System
Shivamogga: Aradhana Orthopedic Hospital in Shivamogga has taken a significant step towards revolutionizing healthcare in the region by introducing the first fully automatic robotic system for knee replacement surgeries.
Breast Cancer Experts Recommend Annual Mammograms for Women Over 30
The rising incidence of breast cancer is becoming a global health crisis, affecting women at increasingly younger ages.
Should You Start Your Day with Fruit?
Starting your day with fruit can be a fantastic choice for a variety of reasons.
Essential Oils A Beginner's Guide to Aromatherapy and Natural Healing
Inrecent years, essential oils have gained popularity as a natural approach to wellness. Used in aromatherapy, these concentrated plant extracts can enhance physical and emotional well-being.
Nuclear Medicine in Thyroid Health Diagnosis and Treatment
Nuclear medicine has transformed the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders, providing a range of non-invasive, precise, and effective options for patients with thyroid issues.
Nutritional and Health Benefits of Plant Protein Alternatives
Since time immemorial, consumption of good quality food has been considered essential for human nutrition. Animal meat and dairy products are important foods for humans. These contain all the nutrients required by the body.
Fungal Infections
How to Recognize and Treat Fungal Infections Early