Understanding food intolerance and its impact on healt
Food intolerances are becoming an increasingly common problem, significantly affecting quality of life and overall health. Unlike allergies, food intolerance does not trigger an immediate immune response but can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms that are difficult to link to a specific product. Understanding this issue and adopting the right dietary approach can help improve well-being and prevent many health problems.
What is food intolerance
Food intolerance occurs when the body cannot properly digest certain foods or food components. This may be due to a lack of specific enzymes involved in the digestive process or a reaction to chemicals found in food. The most common types of food intolerance include:
- Lactose intolerance: A deficiency of the enzyme lactase, which is necessary for breaking down lactose—the sugar found in milk and dairy products.
- Gluten intolerance (coeliac disease): An autoimmune condition where the body reacts to gluten, found in wheat, rye, and barley.
- Fructose intolerance: Difficulty digesting fructose, found in fruits, honey, and some vegetables.
Symptoms of food intolerance
Symptoms can vary depending on the type of intolerance and the amount of food consumed. The most common symptoms include:
- Bloating and gas
- Diarrhoea or constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Headache
- Fatigue
Since these symptoms can resemble other illnesses, it is important to consult a specialist for a proper diagnosis.
Impact on health
Undiagnosed and untreated food intolerance can lead to chronic health problems such as:
- Metabolic disorders: Improper digestion can lead to nutrient deficiencies, negatively affecting metabolism and overall health.
- Immune disorders: Continuous consumption of foods that the body cannot digest may cause chronic inflammation and immune system dysfunction.
- Psychological issues: Chronic symptoms such as fatigue and pain can negatively impact mental health and quality of life.
Advice from dietitian Olga Bezugla
Dietitian Olga Bezugla advises approaching the issue of food intolerance with caution and methodically. She recommends a thorough examination to identify specific foods that trigger symptoms and developing an individual dietary programme tailored to each person’s needs and characteristics.
“Balanced nutrition that considers food intolerance can significantly improve well-being and reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases,” notes Olga Bezugla. She also emphasises the importance of consuming natural foods and avoiding preservatives and additives that can cause additional health problems.
How to create a balanced menu
Developing a balanced menu for food intolerance requires an individual approach and professional consultation. The main principles include:
- Eliminating trigger foods: Identify and eliminate foods from the diet that are not properly digested.
- Substituting with alternatives: Find healthy alternatives that provide the necessary nutrients without adverse effects.
- Maintaining variety: Balanced nutrition should be varied and include foods from all groups of the food pyramid.
- Regular meal consumption: Following a regular eating schedule helps maintain stable energy levels and improve digestion.
For additional information and professional consultation, you can contact dietitian Olga Bezugla and utilise her services for a comprehensive balanced menu for food intolerance.