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What Is The Difference Between Food Allergies And Food Intolerance?

Question: What is the difference between food allergies and food intolerance?

Wesley Burks, M.D., Duke University Medical Center

Answer: Food allergies are an abnormal response of the immune system, whereas food intolerance is something specific for that individual. An example of food intolerance might be lactose intolerance, where that particular individual lacks an enzyme in their gastrointestinal tract that will help them absorb lactose. And so when they drink, like, milk products, then they have excessive gas or diarrhea because of the lack of that digestion.

More Expert Answers From The OnCall+ Allergy Center

So it's caused by the lack of that enzyme, whereas, again, food allergy is caused by an abnormal response of our immune system.

Next: What Is Eosinophilic Esophagitis And How Does It Relate To Food Allergies?

Previous: What Are The Major Food Allergens And What Are Common Symptoms Of An Allergic Reaction To Food?

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