If one goes into a supermarket to buy food, one can quickly come to the idea, that food is the enemy. Everywhere, there are special--and more expensive--foods for various sensitivities. Gluten-free foods are top on the list after lactose intolerance has so far led it. On the other hand, processed food is not necessarily healthy. However, that has other reasons as incompatibilities with certain ingredients such as lactose, gluten, or histamine. On the other hand, those food intolerances actually exist. Nevertheless, it seems that a certain hysteria has evolved around food intolerances. It is similar to fat, which is considered harmful, why there are so many low-fat foods. However, normal fatty foods are usually healthier than low fat, because at the same time, the sugar content in them is higher - and sugar is the real enemy!

Gluten-free bread is not inherently bad. It only becomes problematic when certain symptoms such as nausea, bloating, flatulence, stomach-ache or diarrhoea are blamed on food intolerance without having a thorough medical examination first. Because those symptoms can also indicate an irritable bowel syndrome or irritable stomach (more about it here and here). Alternatively, an inflammation of the stomach lining, a stomach infection, or a chronic inflammatory bowel disease can be the cause. A thorough examination by one of the doctors of PGD international can bring clarity.

An examination by a doctor is imperative because a self-diagnosis can make things worse. For example by depriving the body of important vital substance. Who dispenses milk products because one fears a lactose intolerance, risks a calcium deficiency. Who eats no fruit and vegetables because one believes to have a fructose intolerance, risks a vitamin deficiency that cannot be compensated with dietary supplements.

Even if you have an intolerance, you can still eat certain foods. Intolerances are no allergies. Here applies the same as before: undergo a medical examination and, if necessary, have a nutrition counselling. Do not hesitate to contact us for an appointment and more information.