If you or someone you love has food allergies, it can be very important for you to learn more about them. While there are nearly 4 million Americans with symptoms of allergies to food, it is actually not as common as you might think. Many people who think they have food allergies actually have food intolerance which is not the same thing. Food intolerance is more common and less severe.

True food allergies are more rare and can cause difficulty breathing, asthma, vomiting and in some extreme cases, even death. Food intolerance, however, will usually bring on different types of symptoms such as gas or bloating.

If you suspect you may have food allergies, it’s important to identify if it is true food allergy or just food intolerance. Only your doctor can tell you for certain but you can learn the signs and symptoms of each to help you get an idea for yourself.

It’s also important to have an understanding of the types of foods that cause allergies. While technically a person can be allergic to any type of food, there are some food types which are more commonly known to cause allergies.

For example, shellfish, peanuts, walnuts, eggs and other fish are common allergies. Children may also be allergic to wheat, milk, eggs and soy. While these are the most common, again, any food can cause an allergic reaction in a person.

Allergies to foods are so serious in some people that just smelling the food can cause a reaction and direct exposure can result in death. This is especially true for peanut and shellfish allergies. If you have a food allergy, it’s important to diagnose what foods and be sure to avoid them.

Lisa Mason is a freelance writer with a specialty in Internet content and SEO articles. She has written thousands of articles, hundreds of ebooks and thousands of website pages and related content. She is the author of How to Earn a Living Writing for the Internet.

Lisa Mason, Professional wordsmith for hire: gamer, wife, mother, entrepreneur, published poet, co-owner of game guides company (http://www.liti4.com), public speaker and Internet business consultant. You can learn more or follow Lisa’s blog from her website: http://www.freelancewriter4hire.com.

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