Ételérzékenységek

Ételérzékenységek refers to a range of adverse reactions that a person's body can have to certain foods. These reactions are distinct from allergies, which involve an immune system response. Instead, food intolerances are often due to difficulties in digesting or processing specific components of food, or can be triggered by non-immune mechanisms.

One of the most common types is lactose intolerance, where the body lacks sufficient lactase, the enzyme needed to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products. This can lead to digestive symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming dairy. Another example is gluten sensitivity, which causes discomfort after eating gluten-containing grains, though it is not celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten.

Other food intolerances can be related to food additives, such as sulfites or artificial sweeteners, or natural compounds found in foods like histamine or FODMAPs (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols). Symptoms can vary widely and may include digestive issues, headaches, skin rashes, or fatigue.

Diagnosing food intolerances typically involves a process of elimination and reintroduction of suspect foods, often guided by a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian. While not life-threatening like allergies, food intolerances can significantly impact a person's quality of life and require careful dietary management to alleviate symptoms and ensure adequate nutrition.