What is the Difference Between a Food Allergy and a Food Intolerance?

If you feel bloated after drinking milk or break out in hives after trying a new food, you may wonder if you’re dealing with a food intolerance or food allergy. 

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, the conditions are very different. One involves the immune system and is potentially deadly. The other primarily affects digestion  and, while uncomfortable, isn’t life-threatening.

At Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology Associates, with convenient locations in Tampa and Brandon, Florida, our team of allergy specialists explains the difference between food allergies and food intolerances, and why identifying the cause of your symptoms matters.

What is a food allergy?

A food allergy is an immune system reaction to a substance in a food. Your immune system views the food as harmful and releases chemicals to protect you. These chemicals then trigger symptoms of an allergic reaction.

You can develop a food allergy at any age, though your risk is higher if allergies run in your family. While it’s possible to be allergic to any food, the most common food allergens include:

• Eggs
• Wheat
• Dairy
• Soy
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Peanuts
• Treenuts
• Sesame seeds 

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may include hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or vomiting. In some cases, a food allergy can cause a life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis that requires immediate medical attention.

What is food intolerance?

A food intolerance occurs when your body has difficulty digesting a certain food. This may happen because your digestive system is sensitive to the food or because your body doesn’t produce enough of the enzymes or chemicals needed to properly break down a specific component of the food.

Common food intolerances include:

• Lactose 
• Gluten in wheat, rye, and barley
• Fructose in fruit
• FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols, certain carbohydrates) found in some fruits, vegetables, and beans

Food intolerances are common, and researchers are working to fully understand why they occur. However, food intolerances and sensitivities seem to run in families, suggesting a genetic link.

Key differences between food allergies and intolerances

While both conditions are triggered by food — sometimes the same foods — their underlying causes and risks are quite different.

First, food allergies are an immune system response, while food primarily involves the digestive system. Both allergies and intolerances can cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea. However, food allergies can also affect the skin and respiratory system. Symptoms from allergies often appear right away, while food intolerance symptoms may not appear for hours after you consumed the item. 

Food allergies can also cause life-threatening symptoms. Food intolerances, on the other hand, aren’t life-threatening, but can affect your quality of life.

Further, eating a small amount of an allergen can cause a reaction. With intolerances, you may tolerate small amounts without symptoms.  

Why proper diagnosis matters

Both food allergies and food intolerances can disrupt your daily life. Getting a proper diagnosis is important, because understanding the cause of your symptoms helps ensure you receive the right treatment and avoid unnecessary diet restrictions.

Our offices offer comprehensive allergy testing to determine whether a food allergy is the source of your symptoms. Sometimes ruling out allergies can help confirm a food intolerance. 

Testing is also available for certain intolerances, such as a hydrogen breath test for lactose intolerance. 

Avoiding trigger foods is the primary treatment for both conditions. However, with food allergies, carrying an epinephrine pen (epi-pen) is strongly recommended in case of accidental exposure. The epi-pen lessens the severity of the reaction and life-threatening symptoms.

Are you experiencing symptoms after eating certain foods? Do you have concerns you may have a food allergy? Call us today or click the “book online” button to schedule an appointment with our allergy experts. We can review your symptoms and medical history and request the appropriate testing. 

We have two convenient locations in Tampa, including South Tampa and Carrollwood, and Brandon, Florida.