Can a Pill Fix my Food Intolerance?

Are Food Allergies and Food Intolerances the Same Thing?

“No!” says Clinical Nutritionist Warren Maginn.

“Food intolerances are non-immune mediated food sensitivities – which means your body has difficulty in digesting these foods.  Symptoms of food intolerance include bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, back pain, stiff joints and headaches, among others.”

“Food allergies on the other hand, actually trigger the immune system, which can result in serious symptoms such as anaphylaxis upon contact with the food, which can result in hospitalisation in extreme cases.”

A Little-Known Fact: Food Intolerances Can be caused by Enzyme Deficiencies

Research suggests that supplementing the diet with specialised enzymes specifically capable of assisting gluten, lactose, and casein digestion, may assist in the digestion of these common foods and promote their more optimal digestion.  For example, a specific protease enzyme blend (that is active at a wide pH range) can help break down proteins, including gluten and the dairy protein casein.

This is not a new concept, however a ground breaking all-natural enzyme product that has just hit the shelves on Australian shores has caused some individuals who experience intolerance to foods containing gluten (found in wheat, rye, barley and oats), lactose and dairy milk proteins, to cause a stir on social media.

Enzymedica, who are known as the global enzyme experts and who have recently partnered with Australian distributor Research Nutrition, have formulated Intolergest –  an enzyme combination specific for foods that are most commonly difficult to digest.

Does this Mean I Can Now Eat Gluten and Dairy?

“Unfortunately not” says Maginn.  While these enzymes help to break down difficult to digest carbohydrates, fats, fibres and proteins – with a particular emphasis on gluten and dairy digestion, it doesn’t actually cure food intolerances. The advice for those who are intolerant to these foods is to continue to avoid them completely.”

“In saying that, I employ this product with my own patients, because as those with intolerances know, accidental ingestion is actually quite common, due to a lack of control over food preparation and the ever-present risk of food cross-contamination. In these cases, I see a benefit in having a high-quality product on-hand to assist with easing the symptoms of any accidental ingestion that may occur during social gatherings, travel or other unfamiliar surroundings.”

Enzymedica Intolergest can be found at your local health store. Visit www.researchnutrition.com.au/store-locator to find a stockist.

Reference: abs.gov.au – Australian Health Survey: Nutrition First Results – Food and Nutrients, 2011-12