Food sensitivities, also known as food intolerances, occur when the body has difficulty digesting certain foods or components of foods. Unlike food allergies, which involve the immune system and can cause severe reactions, food sensitivities typically cause milder symptoms and do not involve the immune response. However, they can still have a significant impact on an individual’s well-being and quality of life. 

Differentiating Food Sensitivities from Food Allergies:

Understanding the key differences between food sensitivities and food allergies is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. This section will explain the varying immune responses and symptoms associated with each, with a focus on IgE-mediated allergies and non-IgE-mediated sensitivities.

Common Food Sensitivities:

Explore the most prevalent food sensitivities reported by individuals, including:

      1. Lactose Intolerance:

 Lactose sensitivity is one of the most common food sensitivities. It occurs when the body lacks sufficient lactase, an enzyme that breaks down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. Without enough lactase, lactose remains undigested in the gut, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

      2. Gluten Sensitivity 

Gluten sensitivity refers to adverse reactions to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, and their derivatives. Unlike celiac disease, which is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten, non-celiac gluten sensitivity does not involve an immune response. However, it can cause a range of symptoms, including gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, headaches, joint pain, and skin problems.

      3. Egg Sensitivities:

Egg sensitivities involve adverse reactions to proteins found in eggs, typically the egg whites. Symptoms may include skin rashes, hives, digestive upset, and respiratory issues.

      4. Nut and Peanut Sensitivities:

Some individuals may be sensitive to nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or cashews, or peanuts, which are legumes. Nut and peanut sensitivities can manifest as skin reactions, gastrointestinal discomfort, or, in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

      5. Soy Sensitivities:

Soy sensitivity occurs when the body has difficulty digesting proteins found in soybeans and soy-based products. Symptoms may include digestive issues, skin reactions, and respiratory discomfort.

      6. Shellfish Sensitivities:

Shellfish, including shrimp, crab, lobster, and scallops, can trigger sensitivities in some individuals. Reactions may range from mild skin irritations to severe respiratory issues.

      7. Corn Sensitivities:

Corn sensitivity involves adverse reactions to corn and corn-based products. Symptoms may include digestive issues, skin rashes, and headaches.

      8. Nightshade Vegetable Sensitivities:

Nightshade vegetables like tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplants contain certain compounds that may cause joint pain or digestive issues in some individuals.

      9. Sulfite Sensitivities:

Sulfites are preservatives used in certain foods and beverages, such as dried fruits and wine. Some people may be sensitive to sulfites, leading to respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms.

      10. Histamine Intolerance:

Histamine is a compound involved in the immune response and present in certain foods. Some individuals may experience symptoms like headaches, hives, and digestive issues due to an inability to properly metabolize histamine.

      11. FODMAP Sensitivities:

FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) are carbohydrates found in certain foods. Some individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) may be sensitive to FODMAPs, leading to digestive discomfort.

It’s important to note that food sensitivities can vary widely among individuals. Proper diagnosis and management often involve eliminating trigger foods from the diet and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals or registered dietitians. Keeping a food journal and following an elimination diet can be helpful in identifying specific food sensitivities. If you suspect you have a food sensitivity, consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and appropriate dietary adjustments.

At Modern Store, we believe that everyone deserves to live a healthy life. We are located at your convenient location in Kuala Lumpur (Old Outlet and New Outlet) Malaysia, you can buy all your Indian groceries, vegetables and fruits under one roof. Modern Store Brickfields has now partnered with TheBig3 Online Indian Grocery to bring our products online. You can now shop for our products at our partnered online store – www.thebig3grocery.com.my and we will deliver directly to your homes. Stay Fit! Stay Healthy!

Whatsapp : 014 3171 954

Now Experience hassle-free grocery shopping with Modern Store – Order Online via Official WhatsApp. Free Delivery within Brickfields. Minimum Order RM 50.

To know more:

Like Us on

Facebook:  Modern Store Indian Grocery

Instagram: modernstorekl