What is food sensitivity?
Food sensitivities are often associated with increased intestinal permeability, also known as leaky gut. This occurs when the intestinal lining becomes compromised, allowing substances that should remain in the digestive tract—such as toxins, undigested food particles, and bacteria—to enter the bloodstream.
This disruption can trigger discomfort, inflammation, and immune reactions, potentially contributing to digestive issues, skin conditions, and other systemic imbalances. Supporting gut balance and helping to maintain the gut barrier are important strategies when addressing food sensitivities.
If you are struggling with histamine intolerance, read more here.
What are the symptoms of food sensitivities?
Food sensitivities, also known as food intolerances, occur when the digestive system has difficulty processing certain components in food. This may be due to a reduced ability to break down specific substances, such as lactose, fructose, or histamine.
Unlike food allergies, food sensitivities typically do not involve the immune system and do not trigger severe allergic reactions. Commonly reported symptoms may include:
- Digestive discomfort, such as bloating or abdominal pain
- Irregular digestion or loose stools
- Nausea
- Skin issues, including dryness or irritation
- Nasal congestion or a feeling of blocked sinuses
- Mild respiratory discomfort (consult a healthcare provider for symptoms affecting breathing)
Important note:
Gluten sensitivity is not the same as celiac disease. Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that damages the small intestine in response to gluten, while gluten sensitivity refers to an individual intolerance without autoimmune reactions or intestinal changes.
Probiotics and diet in food sensitivities
For individuals with food sensitivities, adjusting eating habits is often an important step. Many choose to reduce exposure to specific components such as lactose, gluten, or foods high in histamine.
Scientific research has shown that different strains of lactic acid bacteria have different characteristics and roles within the gut environment.In GutMagnific®, five carefully selected strains are used—genetically characterized and confirmed not to produce histamine.The formulation is designed to support microbial diversity in the gut and developed with individuals in mind who may have a sensitive digestive system.
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Frequently asked questions about food sensitivity
- Food allergy involves an immunological reaction (often rapid). Diagnosis and treatment are carried out in healthcare.
- Intolerance more often refers to a known mechanism, e.g. enzyme deficiency in lactose intolerance.
- Food sensitivity is used as an umbrella term for experiences that are not necessarily explained by allergy or a specific intolerance. The symptoms can be more delayed and varied.
Food allergy is an immunological reaction in which the body incorrectly reacts to proteins in food. Symptoms can come on quickly and be serious.
Common allergies include, for example:
- Milk protein
- Eggs
- Peanuts and nuts
- Fish and shellfish
- Soy
- Wheat (note: not the same as gluten intolerance)
Food sensitivities are often linked to imbalances in the gut, barrier function (leaky gut) or an overactive immune response. There is no universal solution, but many people experience improvement by:
- Identifying and avoiding individual triggers
- Strengthening the gut flora and digestion
- Eating a varied and anti-inflammatory diet
- Minimizing stress (which affects the immune system)
- Reintroducing foods gradually once the gut has stabilized
The goal is not to exclude forever, but to create tolerance over time.
