What are food intolerances characterized by?

Food intolerances are primarily characterized by reactions involving digestion. This occurs when the body is unable to properly break down certain foods or components within those foods. For instance, lactose intolerance arises from a deficiency in lactase, the enzyme required to digest lactose, leading to gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, gas, and diarrhea after consuming dairy products.

In contrast to food allergies, which involve an immune system response and can lead to severe allergic reactions, food intolerances typically do not engage the immune system. They are more related to the digestive process and the body's ability to handle specific types of food. Unlike psychological effects, which can be associated with food aversions or other mental health issues, food intolerances are specifically physical reactions that occur during digestion.