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Food Intolerance
Non-immune-mediated adverse reaction to a food component, such as lactose intolerance or histamine intolerance.
Distinct from food allergy because no immune mechanism is involved. Mechanisms include enzyme deficiency (lactase), pharmacologic effects (caffeine, tyramine), or sensitivity to additives. Symptoms are typically GI but can include headache and flushing. Dose-dependent in most cases, unlike true allergies. Management is reduction or elimination of the trigger.
How each textbook covers it
duyff-complete-food-and-nutrition-guide-5e
Krause and Mahan's Food and the Nutrition Care Process, 16th ed. — Chapter 26
Distinct from food allergy because no immune mechanism is involved. Mechanisms include enzyme deficiency (lactase), pharmacologic effects (caffeine, tyramine), or sensitivity to additives. Symptoms are typically GI but can include headache and flushing. Dose-dependent in most cases, unlike true allergies. Management is reduction or elimination of the trigger.
Related terms
FODMAP, Food Allergy, Lactose Intolerance