The most important aspect of food allergies and intolerances is to get an accurate diagnosis. The Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy discuss different methods of diagnosis at http://www.allergy.org.au/pospapers/unorthodox.htm. It's a good idea to check this before deciding on any allergy testing.
Food allergies and intolerances are common, but both require proper diagnosis and treatment.
Food intolerance is a chemical adverse reaction to an added or natural element found in foods. The reaction depends on the dose and may involve different systems within the body, but gastrointestinal and skin reactions are the most common. Diagnosis mostly involves an elimination diet and this needs to be supervised by an accredited practising dietician, your local doctor or a specialist.
Food allergy: is a reaction of the body's immune system to a particular protein component. The reaction is usually triggered by inhaling an airborne particle or by swallowing or touching substances to which a person is allergic.
Common sources of allergy & intolerance:
Allergy: The foods most likely to provoke an allergic reaction in a sensitive person include:
- Cow's milk, crustacea, eggs, fish, peanuts, soy, wheat, tree nuts
- Milk and Milk Products
- Shellfish
- Eggs
- Peanuts
- Fish
- Soy
- Wheat
- Tree nuts and seeds (such as sesame)
Intolerance can develop to many foods, but the most common are:
- Gluten found in grains such as wheat, rye, barley and oats
- Lactose in milk and yoghurt
- Amines and salicylates in many foods (lists are available), including honey, chocolate, some fruits and vegetables (such as berries, tomato or citrus), muesli bars, many nuts, soy sauces, tea, cordials and cola drinks, pies, processed meats and some cereals.
- Food additives such as some colourings, preservatives (especially sodium benzoate), sulphur dioxide or MSG (added to some foods and also present naturally in some cheeses, tomato paste and soy sauce).
Check with your doctor if you suspect you have a food allergy or intolerance.
The two most common food intolerances are:
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Gluten intolerance - also known as 'coeliac disease'. In a person with coeliac disease, the lining of the small intestine is sensitive to gluten, which is the protein component of grains like wheat, rye, barley, triticale, oats and spelt. When the lining of the small intestine is damaged, nutrients may be poorly absorbed. Learn more about coeliac disease
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Lactose intolerance - Lactose is a sugar found naturally in milk. Intolerance is caused by a shortage or lack of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose so it can be absorbed into the bloodstream. If you don't have enough of this enzyme, it can cause digestive problems. Learn more about lactose intolerance
Living with an allergy or intolerance
Being intolerant or allergic to a certain food doesn't mean you have to miss out! Try these handy tips:
1. Check with your doctor
Often, food intolerance is incorrectly self-diagnosed. If you feel you are sensitive to a certain food, make sure you check with your doctor or an accredited dietician. It's important not to restrict a diet unnecessarily so it becomes nutritionally deprived, as this may cause even further problems. Your doctor or dietician will advise on how to manage your diet if needed. Nutrients from foods that need to be avoided can be replaced.
2. Learn to read product labels
When doing your shopping, it's important to learn which products you can and can't have. Always check the label for any indication that a product contains an item you may be allergic to. Find out more about reading product labels.
3. Try alternatives
Today, there are a range of delicious alternatives available at all Woolworths' stores. We stock a range of gluten-free breads, cereals and pasta, as well as a range of dairy alternatives - including rice milk, and many soy products. Click here to find out more about our Brands
4. Cook recipes the whole family can enjoy
If you or anyone in your family has an allergy, you may not need to cook separate meals. Woolworths has plenty of allergy and intolerance-friendly recipe ideas to keep the whole family happy and well nourished.
5. Let people know of your allergy
Cooking fresh food at home is obviously the safest and surest way to avoid food intolerance or allergy. However if you are dining out, ensure you're open with the restaurant host about your allergy so they can cater for your needs. If you have a particularly serious allergy, it's a good idea to call a restaurant before you arrive and let them know, or if dining at a friend's house, perhaps suggest you bring your own dish along.
6. Top up your vitamins & minerals
If your diet is restricted, make sure you eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables so you're still getting all your essential nutrients. Take a look at our food facts section to find out what foods are best for you. Again, check with your doctor or an accredited dietician if you are unsure.
Where can I find out more?
The following websites* provide a range of useful information about food allergy and intolerance.
* Links to non-Woolworths websites have been provided for information purposes only. Woolworths is not responsible for the content on those websites
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