Don't Let Your Food Sensitivities Define You

The Mayo clinic defines a food allergy is “an immune system reaction that occurs soon after eating a certain food. Even a tiny amount of the allergy-causing food can trigger signs and symptoms such as digestive problems, hives or swollen airways. In some people, a food allergy can cause severe symptoms or even a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis.”

Food allergies occur when the immune system  (the body's defence against infection) mistakenly treats proteins found in food as a threat resulting in a number of chemicals being released. These chemicals released cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Food allergies must be diagnosed by either a Doctor or a Naturopath.

A food intolerance (or sensitivity) response takes place in the digestive system. It occurs when you are unable to properly breakdown the food. This could be due to enzyme deficiencies, sensitivity to food additives or reactions to naturally occurring chemicals in foods. Often, people can eat small amounts of the food without causing major problems. Intolerances occur when a person has difficulty digesting a particular food. This can lead to symptoms such as intestinal gas, abdominal pain or diarrhea. We can discover food sensitivities through IgG testing or through an elimination diet.

A food intolerance is sometimes confused with or mislabeled as a food allergy … however food allergies involve the immune system.

Four-and-a-half years ago I started an instagram account @incredible_edibles. It was a space where I could keep track of new recipes I tried that were in line with my food sensitivities (gluten & dairy). I was determined to take my food sensitivities into my own hands and learn how to eat well with my restrictions. I discovered I had a LOVE for cooking and adapting recipes to my new way of life.  I’ve had many successes and failures in the kitchen during this time. Regardless of the outcome, I’ve had a lot of fun along the way! The more I have learned the more I have become passionate about sharing the knowledge I’ve gained through this journey.

It’s been a wild ride for me over these last years as I’ve learned and grown! Through the years I’ve been and done many things... been gluten free, dairy free, refined sugar free, been paleo, done Whole30, counted macros, been a gym rat, had back surgery, learned that I struggle with depression, served a mission for my church, married the best guy around, done elimination diets, labeled food as ‘bad’ & ‘good’, worked with naturopaths, had allergy tests done, been a runner‍, had many blood tests... and so much more! Through these experiences, I’ve come to learn that education is core. Today I’m trying learn more and educate others that food isn’t BAD but that there are some foods that just don’t agree with certain people! We are all made differently so obviously we may react differently to the same foods. I want this to be a space where you can come and realize there is a community for YOU and that YOU are not alone in figuring out what your body likes and doesn’t like. I struggle with sharing a lot about myself and being transparent because I’m scared that people might think that I’m a little crazy or weird (let’s be honest I kind of am lol). With that being said, I am proud to say that I am Erin Lamb - Food Allergy Coach! I’ll help you learn more about food allergies and food sensitivities (gluten and dairy in particular). We will learn how to discover them, understand them, and to adapt to them so that we can live happily. Join me and invite your friends, because I believe we can all learn from each other! ♥