Question

What are the causes of food intolerance?

Prashant began vomiting after lunch at school. He was promptly taken to a nearby doctor, who diagnosed him with food intolerance. Outline three types of food intolerance.

Discuss the causes of Food Intolerance.

Answer 1

1. Absence of an enzyme: e.g., lactose intolerance occurs when there is not enough lactase enzyme to break down milk sugar.
2. Chemical causes: amines in certain cheeses and caffeine in coffee, tea and chocolate can cause intolerance.
3. Toxins in foods: contaminated peanuts and undercooked beans contain aflatoxins, which can cause food poisoning, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting.
4. Salicylates: natural chemicals found in most plant foods; salicylate sensitivity causes reactions to normal amounts of these substances.
5. Gluten intolerance: gluten in wheat, barley and rye causes pain and bloating in sensitive people.
6. Food additives: nitrates and nitrites cause itching and skin rashes; MSG causes headaches; some colourings like carmine and annatto also cause intolerance.