Intolerances

Definition

Intolerances refer to adverse reactions some people have to specific foods or substances, which are not caused by the immune system.

Scientific / Technical Definition

Food intolerances occur when the digestive system is unable to properly break down certain types of food, often due to enzyme deficiencies or sensitivities to food additives. Unlike food allergies, intolerances do not involve the immune system and tend to develop more slowly over time.

Benefits

Examples

• Lactose intolerance, where individuals have difficulty digesting lactose found in dairy products.
• Gluten intolerance, which causes digestive issues when consuming gluten-containing foods like wheat, barley, and rye.
• Sensitivity to food additives like sulfites or MSG (monosodium glutamate).

Additional Information

• Known issues: Consuming foods that one is intolerant to can lead to symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

Related Terms

• Food Allergies
• Lactose Intolerance
• Gluten Sensitivity
• Digestive Enzymes

References

• Food intolerance and sensitivity explained
• Understanding food intolerance