Naturalpath

Like pollen or cat dander, reactions to food allergies range from mild sensitivity to a full-blown anaphylactic reaction.

According to The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, approximately 12 million Americans suffer from some type of food allergy. Symptoms may be delayed for hours or even days, making food allergies very difficult to diagnose.

Eight foods account for 90% of all reactions in the U.S. The most common offenders are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts like walnuts, almonds, cashews, etc., wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. However, over 140 different foods have been identified as allergens.

Food sensitivities are either an immune system allergic response or a milder food intolerance. Allergic reactions come from a heightened full-body response to certain foods, food additives, or specific proteins and chemicals, often resulting in vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stools, eczema, hives, skin rashes, wheezing, or a runny nose.

Food intolerance is much more common than full-blown allergies. Symptoms of food sensitivity tend to be milder and include ongoing digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and constipation or diarrhea. Some people experience fatigue, puffiness, and weight gain (also known as "false fat"). Symptoms vary depending upon a number of variables, including your age, the type of allergen (antigen), and the amount of food ingested.

The best approach to uncovering suspected food allergies may be a detox diet to eliminate the food allergen from your diet for several weeks, and then slowly reintroduce it, taking note of any physical, emotional, or mental changes that result.