Recent studies about food intolerances have proven that sensitivity to certain foods is much more than just another 21st-century fad. The visibility and awareness that has been raised over the past decade in this respect have led to a better quality of life for many people.
Those affected can now live a full and healthy life without having to deal with the unpleasant consequences that the ‘wrong’ foods may trigger within them. But many still struggle to tackle these conditions properly, so it’s time to get some much-needed clarification.
Causes of Food Intolerances:
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- Absence of an enzyme – enzymes are needed to fully digest certain foods and when one is missing, our bodies have no other way to break down this food. A common example of this is people who are lactose intolerant.
- Sensitivity to food additives – the most common example of this is sulfites, which can be found in canned goods, dried fruits, and wine. It can be quite dangerous and may lead to asthma attacks.
- Celiac Disease – this condition is linked to the immune system, which gives it the traits of a food allergy rather than simply an intolerance. However, experts have stated that the gastrointestinal nature of the symptoms of Celiac Disease means that sufferers are mostly exhibiting intolerance to gluten.
- Psychological factors – while this factor is still sorely under-researched, health professionals have claimed that there can be valid psychological reasons behind some food intolerances, including stress and anxiety.
Most Common Food Intolerances
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- Lactose – all dairy products such as milk, yogurt, cheese, and cream
- Gluten – a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley
- Caffeine – beverages such as coffee, sodas, energy drinks, and even some chocolate
Symptoms of Food Intolerances:
When it comes to food intolerances, symptoms may vary both in an individual nature as well as in their severity, depending on the type of food in question. Check out some of the most common traits experienced by sufferers:
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- Abdominal pain and cramps
- Bloating and gas
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Nausea
- Acid reflux
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Rashes or hives
- Depression or anxiety
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Asthma
- Sinus Infections
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms when consuming certain foods, the best way to confirm would be to consult a doctor or qualified nutritionist. Professionals usually suggest an elimination diet as the first course of action, where any junk food should be avoided as much as possible.
Here are some tips to keep you one step ahead.
1. Take Enzymes
Taking enzymes in pill form is now possible to prevent the symptoms of food intolerances. Lactase enzyme pills, for example, are a great way to help lactose-intolerant individuals to digest foods which contain dairy.
2. Make Substitutions
The most effective way to deal with food intolerances is to replace the food with a safe alternative. Examples include swapping out dairy products for soy alternatives and foods containing gluten for gluten-free variants of whole grains such as oats and quinoa.
3. Check Whether it Could be Psychological
This obviously doesn’t apply to everything, but medical professionals have claimed that some food intolerances, like IBS, could be borne out of extreme stress and high anxiety levels. If this sounds like you, see a doctor and remember to look after your mental health as well. Begin by devoting an hour of your day to activities that help you relax and de-stress, such as watching your favorite TV show or participating in New Zealand online gambling. People have been demonstrated to relax by playing online casino games like the ones you’ll find on this website. When you’re ready to play, you may take advantage of the bonuses they’ve supplied, as well as the step-by-step guides they’ve created to assist potential gamers.
Superfoods to Boost Your Health
Time for some positive talk! The world of food has so much to offer us and these top superfoods should be on your grocery list, regardless of whether you suffer from food intolerance. Rich in nutrients and loaded with antioxidants, there’s no more natural way to boost your overall well-being.
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- Dark Leafy Greens
- Berries
- Green Tea
- Legumes
- Ginger
- Olive Oil
- Avocado
- Seaweed
