Food allergy vs. food intoleranceUpdated 2 days ago

Food allergies involve an immune system reaction and can be life-threatening, while food intolerances are digestive issues that cause discomfort but are not immune-related. The symptoms, timing, and management of food allergies & intolerances are very different.

Food allergies

Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly reacts to a specific food protein as a threat. Key characteristics of food allergies:

• Trigger an immune response
• Symptoms appear quickly, often within minutes
• Can include hives, swelling of lips/face/throat, difficulty breathing, or anaphylaxis
• Can be severe or life-threatening

Food allergies require strict avoidance of the trigger food and medical management. Digestive enzymes like FODZYME® do not treat food allergies.

Food intolerances

Food intolerances do not involve the immune system. They occur when the body has difficulty digesting certain food components. Key characteristics of food intolerances:

• Caused by digestive limitations, not immune reactions
• Symptoms often appear hours after eating
• Can include bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation
• Uncomfortable but not life-threatening

Unlike allergies, people with food intolerances can often tolerate small amounts of the trigger food without symptoms.

Key differences at a glance

Where FODMAP intolerance fits in

FODMAP intolerance is a type of food intolerance, not an allergy. It occurs when certain carbohydrates are poorly absorbed and fermented in the gut, leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort. Digestive enzymes like FODZYME® can help by breaking down these specific carbohydrates during digestion, reducing symptoms without affecting the immune system.