Allergies & sensitivities

Anaphylaxis A severe, generalised and potentially fatal allergic reaction occurring rapidly after exposure to an allergen, requiring an emergency…

Cross-reactivity (cross-allergy) An allergic reaction triggered by a different allergen that is structurally close to the original one, as between…

DAO (diamine oxidase) A gut enzyme that breaks down dietary histamine, and whose deficiency is put forward to explain the symptoms… Dietary histamine A molecule made naturally in the body and present in many foods, especially fermented ones, whose build-up can…

FODMAPs A group of carbohydrates poorly absorbed by the small intestine that ferment in the colon, producing gas, bloating… Food allergy An abnormal immune reaction to a food, characterised by the production of IgE antibodies against a protein in… Food intolerance A reaction of the digestive system to a food that does not involve the immune system, usually resulting… Food sensitivity A vague term for uncomfortable reactions to foods that are neither an allergy (no IgE) nor a clearly…

Histamine intolerance Difficulty breaking down dietary histamine, usually through a deficiency of the DAO enzyme, causing varied symptoms often mistaken…

Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) A condition in which a person has symptoms after eating gluten and improves by removing it, without having…

Oral allergy syndrome An allergic reaction confined to the mouth and throat after eating raw fruit or vegetables, caused by cross-reactivity…