Inflammation and Food Intolerance: The Connection You Need to Know
by: Dr. Paul Chang, General Practitioner, Regis Medical
What Is Inflammation?
Acute vs Chronic Inflammation
Inflammation is your body’s natural response to injury or infection. It’s a crucial part of the immune system’s defence mechanism.
Acute inflammation is short-term — think redness, swelling, and heat around a wound.
Chronic inflammation, however, is a slow, persistent process that can silently damage tissues over time.
Why Chronic Inflammation Matters
When inflammation becomes chronic, it stops being helpful. It contributes to a wide range of health problems, including:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Autoimmune disorders
- Obesity
- Cognitive decline
Understanding Food Intolerance
Food Intolerance vs. Food Allergy
Food intolerance is a non-immune response to certain foods. It is typically dose-dependent and delayed.
Food allergy involves the immune system and can cause immediate and severe symptoms (like anaphylaxis).
Common Symptoms of Food Intolerance
- Bloating, gas, abdominal pain
- Brain fog or fatigue
- Skin issues (eczema, acne)
- Chronic Headaches or migraines
- Joint pain
- Irritability or mood swings
These symptoms are often vague and non-specific, making food intolerance difficult to diagnose without proper testing.
| Food Allergy | Food Intolerance |
| Immediate reaction (within minutes) | Delayed reaction (hours to days) |
| Involves the immune system (IgE antibodies) | Often involves IgG antibodies or enzyme deficiencies |
| Hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, anaphylaxis | Bloating, fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, eczema |
| Life-threatening in severe cases | Chronic discomfort, not life-threatening |
| Diagnosed via skin prick or IgE blood test | Diagnosed via IgG food intolerance test or elimination diet |
How Food Intolerance Can Trigger Chronic Inflammation
The Gut-Immune Axis
Your gut houses a large portion of your immune system. When you consume foods you’re intolerant to, your gut lining can become irritated or inflamed. Over time, this may lead to:
- Leaky gut syndrome (increased intestinal permeability)
- Immune system activation
- Systemic inflammation
The Role of IgG Antibodies
IgG antibodies are produced by the immune system in response to food proteins that are perceived as foreign. Elevated IgG levels can contribute to low-grade, chronic inflammation, especially in people with leaky gut syndrome or dysbiosis (gut flora imbalance).
Inflammatory Cascade from Repeated Exposure
Eating the same trigger foods repeatedly — without knowing they’re a problem — doing so can fuel an ongoing cycle of inflammation. This may worsen symptoms over time, further increasing your risk of inflammatory-related conditions.
Common Foods That May Be Inflammatory Triggers
Common Food Intolerances That May Promote Inflammation
- Dairy (lactose and casein intolerance)
- Gluten (non-celiac gluten sensitivity)
- Eggs
- Soy
- Corn
- Nightshades (tomatoes, peppers, eggplants)
- Additives and preservatives (MSG, sulfites)
How to Know If Your Chronic Symptoms Are Linked to Food Intolerance
Key Signs to Watch For
If you’ve been experiencing unexplained symptoms for weeks or months — and traditional medical workups are normal — food intolerance could be a root cause. Watch for patterns like:
- Symptoms that worsen after eating
- Symptoms that fluctuate with your diet
- Relief during elimination diets
Consider IgG Food Intolerance Test
An IgG food intolerance test, can help identify delayed food sensitivities. It’s especially useful for chronic cases where food-related inflammation is suspected.
Reduce Food Intolerances to Lower Inflammation
Benefits of an Elimination Diet Based on IgG Results
- Reduced bloating, fatigue, and brain fog
- Improved skin clarity
- Better digestion
- More consistent energy levels
- Reduced joint pain and stiffness
Long-Term Management Tips
- Work with a dietitian to reintroduce foods strategically
- Support gut health through probiotics and anti-inflammatory foods
- Monitor symptoms and adapt over time
Final Thoughts: Listen to What Your Body Is Telling You
Chronic inflammation is often the result of small stressors that build up over time — and food intolerance is one of the most overlooked contributors. If you’ve been living with ongoing symptoms, identifying and eliminating trigger foods could be a game-changer for your health.
Screen for Food Intolerances at Regis Medical
IgG Food Intolerance tests, up to 270 foods.
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