Food allergies and intolerances are often confused, yet they differ significantly in symptoms, causes, and risks. Allergist Dr. Florence Trébuchon explains how to distinguish them effectively.
As allergist Dr. Florence Trébuchon, featured on Allodocteurs, notes, food allergies involve the immune system, which can trigger severe reactions like anaphylactic shock.
In contrast, food intolerances affect the digestive tract's ability to properly assimilate certain foods, leading to primarily gastrointestinal symptoms.
Gluten and lactose intolerances are among the most prevalent. Lactose intolerance impacts about 8% of the French population, per Dr. Trébuchon.
Symptoms include stomach aches, bloating, diarrhea, regurgitation, and chronic fatigue.
Nutritionist Dr. Arnaud Cocaul recommends an initial one-week elimination test for new patients, followed by gradual reintroduction of gluten or lactose to identify tolerance levels. As he emphasizes, “you can be gluten intolerant without having celiac disease.”
What is celiac disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that damages the small intestine's lining, causing permanent gluten intolerance from cereals like wheat, barley, or rye. It leads to poor nutrient absorption (vitamins, iron, calcium), resulting in deficiencies. Lifelong strict gluten avoidance is the only treatment.
Over 160 foods can trigger allergies, but just 8 account for 90% of cases:
How do food allergies manifest?
Allergies provoke intense immune responses to everyday foods. Shortly after ingestion or contact, swelling may occur in the lips, tongue, eyelids, pharynx, or larynx—known as angioedema—potentially blocking airways. Call emergency services (SAMU 15 in France) immediately if this happens.
Dr. Cocaul explains that allergies can develop gradually with age or appear from birth, sometimes violently without prior sensitization. In young children, overactive white blood cells may release excessive pro-inflammatory molecules.
Signs like breathing difficulties or swollen lips after eating warrant prompt medical attention. Consult your doctor, followed by an allergist for testing and personalized management.
