Food Sensitivity

​Symptoms

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• Digestion problems such as bloating, diarrhea, and flatulence.

• Headaches.

• Joint pain.

• Fatigue.

• Abdominal pain.

• Eczema.

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Typically, symptoms start 30 minutes to an hour after ingestion and, in some cases, may take up to 48 hours to appear.

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Most Common Sensitivity Foods

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• Lactose intolerance affects about 70% of the population, has a bias toward milk or dairy products.

• Gluten.

• Caffeine.

• Fructose.

• Aspartame.

• Natural chemicals, salicylates, glutamate, and amines found in foods.

• MSG.

• Eggs.

• Yeast.

• Sugar alcohol is a sugar alternative.

• Food coloring additives.

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Complications

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• Vitamins deficiency and lactose intolerance may lead to low levels of calcium and vitamins A, B12, and D.

• Minerals deficiency, limited absorption of zinc and magnesium.

• Osteoporosis is when the bone becomes weak.

• Osteopenia, low minerals in the bones.

• Poor nutrition occurs when your body lacks the nutrients to function correctly.

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Prevention

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• Get tested, schedule your food sensitivity test.

• Avoid foods that trigger a reaction for several days, then slowly reintroduce the problem food to determine the source.

• Change your diet habits.

• Introduce a probiotic supplement to help balance your gut bacteria.

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Vitamins and Supplements for Food Sensitivities

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Food sensitivities can lead to various symptoms, such as digestive issues, skin reactions, and headaches. If you are experiencing symptoms related to food sensitivities, certain vitamins and supplements may help manage them. However, it's important to note that supplements should not replace medical advice or treatment, especially if your symptoms are severe or persistent. Here's an overview of helpful vitamins and supplements.

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• Probiotics​: Can help support gut health, improve digestion, and reduce symptoms like bloating and gas, which are often linked to food sensitivities.

• Digestive Enzymes​: Can help break down food more effectively and may reduce symptoms like bloating, indigestion, or nausea caused by certain foods.​

• Vitamin D​: Plays a crucial role in immune function, and a deficiency can exacerbate sensitivities and inflammation in the body.​

• Magnesium​: Is known to support digestion and can help with symptoms like cramping, bloating, and discomfort associated with food sensitivities.​

• B Vitamins​ (B-Complex): Especially B6 and B12 support energy levels and nerve health, which may be impacted by food sensitivities. They can also reduce inflammation and support the immune system. If you're feeling fatigued, experiencing nerve-related symptoms (like tingling), or have trouble absorbing nutrients due to food sensitivities, B vitamins may help.

• Quercetin​: Is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce symptoms of allergic reactions and sensitivities. Consider quercetin if you have food-related reactions that feel like allergies (e.g., itchy skin, swelling, or headaches).

• L-Glutamine​: Is an amino acid that can help heal the gut lining, which may be useful for people with sensitivities that affect digestion.​

 

When to See a Doctor

 

If you're experiencing food sensitivities, it's important to see a doctor under the following conditions:

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• Severe or Persistent Symptoms: If you are having severe reactions, such as swelling, hives, shortness of breath, or extreme abdominal pain, it could be a sign of a more serious allergic reaction (e.g., anaphylaxis) or a more complex medical condition.

• Inability to Identify Triggers: If you can't pinpoint which foods are causing your sensitivities, a doctor or allergist can help with testing and diagnosis to avoid unnecessary restrictions.

• Nutrient Deficiencies: If you're avoiding certain foods to manage sensitivities, it's important to see a doctor to ensure you aren't developing nutrient deficiencies, which can lead to more health problems.

• Weight Loss or Malnutrition: If your food sensitivities are affecting your ability to absorb nutrients properly, resulting in weight loss or malnutrition, it's important to get medical attention.

• Digestive Issues: If you're dealing with ongoing digestive issues (like diarrhea, bloating, or constipation) that interfere with your daily life, seeing a gastroenterologist could provide insight into underlying conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or food intolerances.

• Skin Reactions: Persistent rashes, eczema, or other skin reactions could indicate food sensitivities that need professional evaluation.