Food Allergy vs. Sensitivity vs. Intolerance:

Major Differences Compared

Curious about the distinctions between food allergies, sensitivity, and intolerance? Consider if certain foods cause low energy, fatigue, or digestive issues?

Food Allergy

Food allergies manifest shortly after consumption, with symptoms usually appearing within minutes or a few hours, often severe in nature.

1

Symptoms

Common symptoms of food allergies include wheezing, coughing, vomiting, difficulty breathing, hives, abdominal pain, rash, and swollen tongue.

Food Sensitivity

A food sensitivity is often referred to as a delayed hypersensitivity response, means that individual may not present with symptoms until several hours or even several days later.

2

Symptoms

Common symptoms of food sensitivity include but are not limited to: headaches, nasal drip or congestion, excess mucus production, fatigue, irritable bowel, acne, muscle or joint pain, etc.

Food Intolerance

Food intolerance does not involve the immune system and typically stems from a reaction to a component of a specific food vs. the food item itself.

3

Symptoms

The most common symptoms a food intolerance include but are not limited to: flushing, diarrhea, general discomfort, and cold or flu-like symptoms.

SWIPE UP!

WANT TO READ MORE?

What has been your greatest challenge or issue with a food allergy, sensitivity, and intolerance? Swipe up and leave some of your thoughts!