Food allergies and intolerances

• Peanut intolerance: The prevalence of peanut intolerance in the UK is unknown, although some studies have suggested that, one in 200 may be affected in some way. Adults and children, who suffer from a peanut intolerance, may experience a tingling of the mouth and lips, swelling of the face, a skin rash called urticaria, nausea, colicky pain (a gripping stomach pain) and feelings of tightness in the throat. A small number of people suffer very severe reactions within a few minutes of eating peanuts including swelling of the airways and anaphylactic shock (obstruction of breathing), a sudden drop in blood pressure, collapse and unconsciousness. People with a peanut allergy must strictly avoid all traces of peanuts in their food.

Food intolerances and allergies are actually much less common than you might think. Current estimates suggest that food intolerance exists in about 1 to 2% of the adult population in the UK, whilst only a small proportion of these people are truly allergic to food. The incidence of food intolerance is higher for children, at 5 to 7%, but it is believed that, most children outgrow their intolerances by age 4 or 5 years, with the exception of peanut allergies, which remain a lifelong problem.

Although the general consensus is that food allergies are on the rise, it is unclear as to why. Many people who think they have a food allergy or intolerance have not been tested by a doctor. If you suspect you have a food allergy or intolerance, you should seek the advice of your GP who will conduct specific medical tests to confirm diagnosis. Once diagnosis is confirmed, a State Registered Dietitian can suggest dietary modifications, to ensure that you don't unnecessarily exclude important foods from your diet.

For more information on the subject, visit the British Nutrition Foundation (020 7404 6504). Additionally, many supermarkets have free leaflets about food allergies and intolerances.