toidutundlikkus

Toidutundlikkus, also known as food allergy or food intolerance, is a condition where the immune system reacts abnormally to certain foods. This reaction can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual and the specific food involved. Food allergies are typically characterized by an immediate response, often within minutes of consuming the allergen, and can include symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis, which is a life-threatening reaction.

Food intolerances, on the other hand, are not immune-related and do not involve the immune system. Instead, they occur when the body has difficulty digesting certain foods, leading to symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Common food intolerances include lactose intolerance, which is the inability to digest lactose, and gluten intolerance, which is a reaction to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Both food allergies and intolerances can have significant impacts on an individual's quality of life, affecting their ability to eat certain foods and potentially leading to nutritional deficiencies. It is important for individuals with food allergies or intolerances to be aware of the foods they should avoid and to seek medical advice if they experience symptoms after consuming a particular food. Proper diagnosis and management can help individuals with toidutundlikkus lead healthy and fulfilling lives.