Food intolerance covers food-dependent symptoms of different origin. Food intolerances are often associated with a high degree of psychological strain and restrictions for the quality of life, so that the early and correct detection is of great importance. There is evidence that the prevalence of food intolerances and allergies has been steadily increasing in recent years. Environmental influences, industrially manufactured products or processed food and the use of pesticides seem to be partly responsible. But also acute or chronic inflammations in the gastrointestinal tract can lead to various intolerances, so that an anti-inflammatory therapy can represent an important part of the treatment.
The underlying health problems of food intolerances concern the gastrointestinal tract (abdominal pain, flatulence, constipation, diarrhoea) and areas outside of the gastrointestinal tract (muscle and joint pain, headaches, palpitations, skin reactions, water retention, physical weakness and fatigue).
The disease affects all age groups, so that standardised diagnostics and a targeted therapy are highly relevant. After an accurate diagnosis and exclusion of an organic disease, we focus on the investigation of carbohydrate malabsorption and histamine or gluten intolerance. Furthermore, allergic and pseudoallergic reactions must be taken into consideration. Special examination procedures, such as the determination of gastric emptying or colonic transit time, can detect rare diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
The therapy based on this detailed diagnosis includes a professional nutritional advice and, if necessary, medical measures. Here, the therapy is checked and adjusted in close consultation with the patient to ensure optimal therapeutic success.