Food intolerances affect your digestive system the most. While dealing with food intolerances can be challenging, with the right guidance, you can prevent it from taking over your life and affecting your overall health. If there’s one upside here, it is that food intolerances are most often not life-threatening. However, in some instance, symptoms can be linked to an underlying gastrointestinal condition, such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease, which if not treated properly, could lead to life-threatening complications.
If you want to manage your food intolerance the proper way, you should see a gastroenterologist or a GI doctor, who is the most qualified to treat food intolerances. Below, we talk more about food intolerances, the use of supplementation for intolerance treatment, and how a GI doctor can help you manage your condition.
What is the Difference Between a Food Intolerance and a Food Allergy?
The main difference between a food intolerance and a food allergy lies in the underlying immune response triggered by the body. Food intolerance occurs when the body has difficulty digesting or metabolizing certain foods, typically due to enzyme deficiencies or sensitivities to food additives. This reaction does not involve the immune system and is often limited to digestive symptoms such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea.
On the other hand, a food allergy is an immune system reaction to specific proteins in certain foods. It involves the release of antibodies, particularly immunoglobulin E (IgE), which can lead to itching, hives, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction.
How Is Food Intolerance Treated?
The primary strategy in food intolerance management is to identify and eliminate or reduce the consumption of foods that trigger symptoms. Keep a food diary to track your symptoms and identify potential culprits. Work with your GI doctor or a registered dietitian who can help you develop a suitable meal plan that avoids foods you are unable to digest while ensuring you still get a balanced diet.
Another method involves taking supplements. For example, people who are lactose intolerant are unable to break down lactose due to the small intestine not producing lactase, which is the enzyme that breaks down lactose. Lactose supplements can be taken before consuming trigger foods, such as dairy products like milk or cheese. This, combined with making dietary adjustments, can help alleviate symptoms associated with food intolerance. Dietary adjustments include opting for lactose-free or low-lactose dairy products, choosing gluten-free alternatives for those with gluten intolerance, and avoiding specific food additives or preservatives.
Furthermore, you may need vitamin and mineral supplements since some food intolerances can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Again, a GI specialist and dietitian can help ensure you are receiving adequate nutrition and address any potential nutrient gaps through dietary modifications or targeted supplementation based on your specific food intolerance and potential deficiencies.
For instance, if you have lactose intolerance, calcium and vitamin D supplements may be necessary for maintaining bone health. If you have gluten intolerance, supplements supporting gut healing and nutrient absorption may be beneficial, such as probiotics or digestive enzymes.
How To Find Supplements for Food Intolerance Treatment
Finding the right supplements to support your intolerance treatment can make a significant difference. However, navigating the vast array of options can be overwhelming.
Below are some useful tips for finding the right supplements for your food intolerance. Please consult your doctor before taking any supplements.
For Lactose Intolerance:
- Lactase Supplements: Look for lactase supplements that contain the enzyme needed to break down lactose. Follow recommended dosage instructions carefully.
- Read Labels: Ensure products are specifically designed for lactose intolerance and are lactose-free or low in lactose.
For Histamine Intolerance:
- Antihistamine Supplements: Consider supplements like quercetin or vitamin C, which are thought to have antihistamine properties.
- Probiotics: Look for probiotic supplements that may help improve gut health and support the breakdown of histamine.
For Gluten Intolerance:
- Gluten Digestive Enzymes: Consider gluten digestive enzyme supplements that aid in the breakdown of gluten proteins.
- Nutrient Support: Address nutrient deficiencies related to gluten intolerance with targeted supplements.
- Gluten-Free Certification: Look for supplements certified as gluten-free to avoid contamination.
Finding the right supplements for food intolerance treatment requires careful consideration and guidance from a GI professional to help you navigate the complex landscape of supplements. With a comprehensive strategy that includes appropriate enzyme and nutrient supplementation alongside a balanced diet, you can manage your condition and symptoms well and remain healthy.
Can a Gastroenterologist Help with Intolerance Treatment?
The average individual with no medical training may find it challenging to manage their intolerance. In this case, since it involves your health and safety, you need an expert – a gastroenterologist or GI doctor – to guide your treatment for it to be effective.
GI doctors play a crucial role in the treatment and management of food intolerances, since they specialize in conditions affecting the digestive system. They begin by conducting a comprehensive evaluation, which may involve reviewing your medical history, performing a physical examination, and ordering some tests. The results of the assessment will help the doctor determine whether or not you have an underlying GI condition causing food intolerance, the specific food intolerance you may have, and the severity of your condition.
Once a diagnosis is made, the gastroenterologist can develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to you. They will educate you on what foods to avoid, provide dietary recommendations, and suggest alternative food options to ensure you receive proper nutrition. The doctor may also prescribe medications and supplements to manage symptoms associated with food intolerances. Medications may include antacids for heartburn and anti-diarrheal medications, enzyme supplements to aid in digestion, such as lactase supplements for lactose intolerance, and vitamin and mineral supplements.
Gastroenterologists monitor your progress over time and assess the effectiveness of the treatment plan. If you continue to experience symptoms and are unhappy with your current treatment plan, let the doctor know, so they can make adjustments to your treatment plan.
Food Intolerance Treatment in Austin, TX
Our expert gastroenterologists at Austin Gastroenterology (AG) specialize in diagnosing and treating various food intolerances, including lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and more. We provide personalized treatment plans and have access to the latest therapies used in treating GI issues, like food intolerances.
Don’t let food intolerances hold you back from enjoying life. Schedule an appointment today by calling our GI clinic nearest you or bysending us an appointment request.
