Doctors and experts are in agreement that food allergies and certain intolerances could be contributing to weight gain or at least the perception of it.
People with intolerances towards dairy and gluten typically experience gas and bloating, which would make it seem as though that new diet you are trying out, isn't working. Perhaps you snack occasionally and that scoop of ice cream makes you blow up out of nowhere.
The reason may be due to a food intolerance and an immunoglobulin G (IgG) "delayed hypersensitivity response" according to EveryDayHealth and Dr. Mark Hyman
The body's reactions to peanut and shellfish allergies are a bit different though and shouldn't be confused with food intolerances. Allergies cause a misfire of chemicals, including histamine, which results in hives, rashes, itching, swelling and even anaphylaxis. The reaction is due to a certain protein found in the food.
According to Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network, about 15 million people have food allergies. However, food intolerances are even more common.
"There are different ways a body responds adversely to food," said Dr. Mark Hyman, who is the founder and medical director of The UltraWellness Center in Lenox, Massachussettes. "There can be a full-blown allergic response like there would be with peanut allergy, and there can be a low-level reaction that is more of a sensitivity."
Intolerances, according to Dr. Hyman, could be classified as weight gain, bloating and general discomfort. As previously mentioned, this is known as an immunoglobulin G response.
Common foods responsible for intolerances are lactose, gluten, fructose, corn, eggs and soy.
There is a way to pinpoint these intolerances or allergies if you are unsure says nutritionist expert Sharon Zarabi, RD.
"List the specific foods you are eating - even brand names - and all of the symptoms that you experience afterward for one week," she said.
Step by step you then reintroduce one food at a time until you find the culprit for your bodily reaction. After that, you must eliminate or diminish, those foods in your diet.
To read more tips, click here.
