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Rheyanne Weaver
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Food Allergies Versus Food Intolerance: What You Should Know

Around 6 percent of people with allergies have food and drug allergies, and children are more likely to have this type of allergy than adults, according to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Though food intolerance is different than food allergies, the two are often confused.

Food allergies happen in people with overly sensitive immune systems (at least for certain types of food or drink). The body is trying to fight off the supposed intruder, so there is a negative reaction to the allergen (or food), according to the AAFA Web site.

Here are symptoms of food allergies, according to the Centers for Disease Control:

• hives
• tingling in the mouth
• swelling in the tongue and throat
• difficulty breathing
• abdominal cramps
• vomiting or diarrhea
• eczema or rash
• coughing or wheezing
• loss of consciousness
• dizziness

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, the most common foods that people have allergies to are proteins in cow’s milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish and tree nuts.

We value and respect the experiences of all of our HerWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.