A food allergy is an abnormal response of the body to certain foods. Importantly, a food allergy is different from food intolerance, which does not affect the immune system, although some symptoms may be common.
Food allergens
Before having a food allergy reaction, a sensitive person must be exposed to food at least once before. Allergic symptoms occur the second time the person eats the food. This time, when IgE antibodies react with the food, histamines are released, causing hives, itching in the mouth, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhea.
The difference between food allergy and food intolerance
Food allergy causes an immune system response, causing symptoms ranging from uncomfortable to life threatening. Food intolerance does not cause immune response, although some symptoms may be the same as in food allergy.
The most common foods causing food allergies
Approximately 90 percent of all food allergies are caused by eight foods:
* Milk.
* Eggs.
* Wheat.
* Soya.
* Nuts.
* Fish.
* Seafood.
* Mani.
Eggs, milk and peanuts are the most common causes of food allergies in children, also including wheat, soybeans and nuts. Peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish commonly cause the most severe reactions. About 6 percent to 8 percent of children have food allergies. Although most children “outgrow” their allergies, allergy to peanuts and tree nuts may be life.
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