Food reactions can result in a number of mental health symptoms by causing an autoimmune response. This response can lead to inflammation in the brain, resulting in cognitive, emotional, or behavioral symptoms.
Types of Food Reactions
Food Allergies
Food allergies occur when the body’s immune system produces antibodies to fight food which it believes is an invader. If IgE antibodies are produced, an immediate response occurs, which can cause fatigue, hyperactivity, or abdominal discomfort.
Food Sensitivity
If IgG antibodies are produced in response to the food, a delayed (24-48 hours) response occurs. Symptoms can include impaired concentration, behavioral concerns, and frequent illness. Due to the delayed response, the responsible food can be hard to identify.
Food Intolerance
When your child lacks the enzymes necessary to digest a certain food, they develop food intolerance. A common example is lactose intolerance, an inability to break down a sugar found in dairy products. Symptoms can include abdominal pain or fatigue.
Identifying Food Reactions
The main method for identifying food reactions is an elimination diet. Your child is restricted to four non-allergenic foods for two weeks and then other foods are slowly reintroduced one at a time. If symptoms emerge, then that food is likely contributing to the problem. Nutrition may not be the only factor in your child’s symptoms, but it is an important one to consider.
Reference:
McEvoy, R.E., Gangwish, K., & Jones, M. (2016). Child decoded: Unlocking complex issues in your child’s behavior, learning and attention. Louisville, CO: L.E.A.R.N., LLC.