Food Allergy Overview

Food allergy is an immune system response that occurs soon after eating a particular food. Even a small amount of food allergens can cause signs and symptoms such as digestive problems, hives or swelling of the airways. In some people, a food allergy can cause severe symptoms or even life-threatening reaction called anaphylaxis.

Food allergy affects about 6-8 percent of children under 5 years, and about 3-4 percent of adults. Although there is no cure, some children find their food allergy as they get older. It 'easy to confuse a food allergy is a reaction far more common known as food intolerance. While embarrassing, food intolerance is a condition less severe, that does not involve the immune system.