Patient Education

Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Food intolerance

Food intolerance refers to a physical response to a food or food additive that is not an allergic reaction. It differs from a food allergy in that it does not involve the immune system and it is much more common.

Food intolerances are often mistaken as food allergies. Some common food intolerances include sulfites, lactose, and food additives like MSG. Food intolerances do not usually cause as severe a reaction as food allergies, but they can cause nausea, vomiting, painful cramping, and diarrhea.