Food Intolerances: Diagnosis and Support
Food intolerances — lactose, histamine, fructose, FODMAPs — affect a growing portion of the population and significantly impact quality of life. This article details the main food intolerances, their enzymatic and metabolic mechanisms, validated diagnostic methods and naturopathic support strategies.
Food intolerances — lactose, histamine, fructose, FODMAPs — affect a growing portion of the population and significantly impact quality of life. This article details the main food intolerances, their enzymatic and metabolic mechanisms, validated diagnostic methods and naturopathic support strategies.
Introduction
Food intolerances differ from allergies by the absence of IgE-mediated immune reaction. They generally result from enzymatic deficiencies or non-immune hypersensitivities. Symptoms are dose-dependent and delayed.
Lactose Intolerance
The most common food intolerance. Lactase deficiency affects 70% of the world population. Diagnosis: hydrogen breath test. Most intolerants tolerate 12g lactose per sitting. Aged cheeses and yogurts are often tolerated. Exogenous lactase supplementation enables occasional dairy consumption.
Histamine Intolerance
Results from imbalance between histamine intake and DAO/HNMT degradation capacity. Symptoms mimic allergic reaction without being one. Support: low-histamine diet, DAO supplementation, vitamin C, B6, quercetin, intestinal barrier repair, stress management.
FODMAP Sensitivity
FODMAPs are fermentable short-chain carbohydrates. The Low-FODMAP approach (Monash University) includes elimination, systematic reintroduction and long-term personalization. Meta-analyses confirm efficacy in IBS.
Support Principles
- Never restrict unnecessarily — risks of nutritional deficiencies and microbiome depletion.
- Always aim for reintroduction — determine individual tolerance threshold.
- Support microbiome — compensate elimination diet effects with adapted probiotics.
- Treat the cause — restore intestinal barrier, support enzyme production.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Elimination diets should be supervised by a qualified dietitian or naturopath to prevent nutritional deficiencies.
Medical Disclaimer
The information presented in this article is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment prescription. If in doubt, always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare professional. The techniques described do not replace conventional medical treatment.