Food Intolerance…NOT an allergy

While on the quest to the coveted 6-pack, or flat abs…there are many diet related road blocks.  Yes, the culprit could be dehydration or too much sodium — but it could also very well be a food intolerance.

One of the the commonest cause of bloating is food intolerance – or the inability to fully digest certain foods. Incomplete digestive processing produces unexpected gases in the intestine – creating painful pressure, and making the abdomen balloon outwards – stomach bloating. – Foodintol.com

A food intolerance is NOT to be confused with a food allergy. A food allergy is an immediate immune reaction usually resulting in throat tightening, hives, and even anaphylaxis. Even a microscopic amount can elicit a life-threatening reaction.

If you think you have a food allergy, consult a doctor and do not try to diagnose yourself.

Here is an 8 Step Food Elimination Plan to test for a food intolerance from Lifehacker.com:

Remember, because these foods the most common culprits, the FDA requires labeling of these food groups by all manufacturers. Therefore, except for corn and additives, you will always be able to read labels to identify hidden sources of these foods.

1. Try to stay off dairy, wheat, soy and eggs for 2-3 weeks. This includes yogurt, cheese, whey, and processed foods with eggs as an ingredient.
2. Add them back one item at a time separated by 3 days.
3. Then, remove peanuts, shellfish, corn for 2-3 weeks. Remember to read labels and ask for ingredients at restaurants.
4. Add them back one item at a time separated by 3 days.
5. Remove tree nuts (i.e. almonds, walnuts, cashews), and all fish for 2-3 weeks.
6. Add them back one item at a time separated by 3 days.
7. Eliminate any foods or drinks with preservatives such as MSG, artificial sugars, and artificial dyes for 1 week. This is probably the hardest part because it includes sodas, most alcoholic drinks, and snacks, but it’s only a week!
8. Add back each (if you want) separated by 3 days.

The theory behind this plan is that certain foods cause inflammation of the intestines, joints, or stomach. Now if you add the offending food back, you will notice that your symptoms are back, sometimes with a vengeance!

Want more information? Foodintol.com has a free e-book available for download here or take their free self assessment here.
photo credit: nickwheeleroz via photopin cc