Food Intolerances?
Suffering from bloating, indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, headaches, skin rashes, or fatigue? Read on to discover how to treat these common symptoms of food intolerance with herbal medicine and nutritional supplements.
Allergy or Intolerance?
Although the terms 'food allergy' and 'food intolerance' are often used interchangeably, they are two separate issues that involve different bodily systems. A food allergy calls our immune systems into action whereas a food intolerance involves our digestive system. When a true allergy is present, the immune system treats the trigger food as an enemy invader and kicks into action to protect us from this imagined threat. This overreaction by our immune systems causes symptoms such as an itchy throat or mouth, skin rashes, hives, or even swelling of the face, lips, or tongue. Symptoms, though often relatively mild, can be severe and may affect the gut, skin, circulation, or even your ability to breathe. Such reactions are less common but can be life-threatening. See your GP or healthcare provider if you suspect you might be suffering from a food allergy.
Symptoms of Food Intolerances
Symptoms of food intolerance can be wide-ranging and varied. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, wind, bloating, diarrhea, headaches, fatigue, skin rashes, itching spells, heartburn, or nausea. This is by no means an exhaustive list and symptoms can change over time. Relief might be gained from symptoms such as wind and bloating only for them to return seemingly out of the blue! Additionally, symptoms can vary from individual to individual, as well as from food to food. This means food intolerances can be tricky to diagnose and oftentimes a lot of patience and detective work is required in order to pin down which foods are contributing to the unpleasant symptoms. Though not a hard and fast rule, symptoms relating to food intolerances usually happen a few hours after eating the food.
Some people find it worthwhile to keep a food diary by writing down which foods they have eaten, including any symptoms that happen after eating these foods and when symptoms occur. Mobile apps are available to help you log foods eaten and any noticed symptoms. Take a look at your app store for some of the highest-rated apps.
Food Intolerance Testing
Tests can be useful to pinpoint whether certain foods are causing you problems. You can look here at the tests available at Grampian Health Store
Remedies for Bloating
We also have a wide variety of supplements and herbal remedies that can be useful in treating the causes and symptoms of food intolerances. Since each person will have different symptoms, we list the following remedies for information purposes only. Please visit us in-store for specific advice, tailored to your situation.
A. Vogel Yarrow Complex
This blend of fresh, herbs has a distinctive bitter taste making it a highly effective digestive aid. Yarrow is a beneficial remedy to use when food intolerances are suspected, partly down to its ability to increase the number of digestive enzymes available in the gut. The herbal blend in Yarrow Complex makes the digestive process more efficient, allowing the body to break down food and absorb minerals more effectively. Yarrow Complex further helps with indigestion, leaky gut syndrome, wind, and bloating. To take Yarrow, simply dilute in a little water and drink before main meals.
Lambert's Lactase Complex
Lactase is an enzyme used by the body to break down lactose - the sugars found in milk and milk products. Some people don't produce enough lactase and can find symptoms such as diarrhea, stomach cramps, gas, and bloating that can occur after consuming lactose-containing products. If you suspect you have lactose intolerance, it is advised to consult with your GP or relevant medical professional.
You may also find it beneficial to take a Lactase supplement before eating or drinking products containing lactose. Lambert's Lactase is an excellent choice. Simply take one tablet before meals to help give your digestive system a helping hand.
Biocare Probiotics
Research scientists are discovering how our own gut microbiota is more vital to our health and wellbeing than previously thought. From helping improve mood to helping you achieve better sleep, probiotics also play a vital role in how we break down our food and assimilate nutrients. healthy and break down and Probiotics can be hugely beneficial to some people who suffer from food intolerances. Taking the appropriate strains, in a high enough dose, can help encourage normal digestion and improve gut integrity encouraging a better tolerance to offending foods.
It is advisable to check with your G.P before taking supplements - particularly if you are already taking medication or have a pre-existing condition.