Food Allergy and Intolerance

Nutritious foods and fluids nourish our bodies, promote good health, and for athletes, can help enhance sports performance. However in some individuals, certain foods and fluids can cause adverse reactions ranging from mild to debilitating. In athletes, these reactions may significantly impact performance.

Food Allergy generally occurs in people with an overactive immune system that can produce IgE antibodies to substances in the environment which are normally harmless. Food allergy usually begins early in life and is more common in babies and children than adults.

Food intolerance is far more prevalent amongst adults than food allergy. Unlike allergies, intolerances do not involve the immune system. They are triggered by various natural food chemicals (e.g. salicylates, amines and glutamates) and/or food additives including artificial colours and certain preservatives (e.g. sorbates, benzoates, sulphites, nitrates and artificial antioxidants).

Click here to read more on Food Allergy and Intolerance.pdf

Allergy Action Plan

Individuals considered at risk of anaphylaxis are generally advised to carry a self injectable adrenaline syringe for emergency use and have an emergency action plan. This must be easily accessible at all times, including when exercising. Responsible adults engaged in supporting athletes with allergy (including the coach, team manager etc) should be familiar with emergency procedures including use of an adrenaline syringe.

Click here for an example of an Allergy Action Plan for Anaphylaxis.jpg

Food Allergy and Intolerance

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