Food Intolerance at DRHC Dubai

What is Food Intolerance?

Food intolerance is a digestive system response that occurs when your body has difficulty digesting certain foods. Unlike food allergies, which involve the immune system and can be life-threatening, food intolerances are generally less severe but can still cause significant discomfort and affect quality of life.

Common Symptoms of Food Intolerance

Symptoms of food intolerance typically appear several hours after consuming the problematic food and may include:

• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Bloating and gas
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Nausea
• Headaches or migraines
• Heartburn
• Fatigue

Common Causes of Food Intolerance

Several factors can contribute to food intolerance, including:

• Lactose Intolerance: Difficulty digesting lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products, due to a deficiency in lactase enzyme.
• Gluten Sensitivity: Adverse reactions to gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, leading to symptoms similar to those of celiac disease but without the immune response.
• Histamine Intolerance: Inability to break down histamine in certain foods, leading to symptoms like headaches, hives, and nasal congestion.
• Food Additives: Sensitivity to additives such as sulfites, monosodium glutamate (MSG), and artificial colors and flavors.
• Fructose Malabsorption: Difficulty absorbing fructose, a sugar found in fruits, honey, and some vegetables and grains.

Diagnosis and Testing

At DRHC Dubai, we offer comprehensive testing to diagnose food intolerances accurately. Our approach includes:

1. Detailed Medical History: Our specialists will take a thorough history to identify potential food triggers and symptoms.
2. Elimination Diet: Patients may be advised to eliminate suspected foods from their diet and gradually reintroduce them while monitoring symptoms.
3. Food Intolerance Tests: Blood tests and breath tests can help identify specific intolerances, such as lactose or fructose intolerance.

Managing Food Intolerance

Effective management of food intolerance involves:

• Dietary Modifications: Avoiding or reducing intake of foods that trigger symptoms.
• Nutritional Guidance: Working with our dietitians to ensure a balanced diet that meets nutritional needs while avoiding problematic foods.
• Enzyme Supplements: For certain intolerances, such as lactose intolerance, enzyme supplements may help improve digestion.
• Symptom Management: Medications or lifestyle changes to alleviate symptoms like bloating, diarrhea, or headaches.

Living Well with Food Intolerance

Managing food intolerance can significantly improve your quality of life. At DRHC Dubai, our multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists, dietitians, and nutritionists work together to provide personalized care and support. We aim to help you identify your food triggers, develop a manageable diet plan, and maintain optimal digestive health.