Allergy symptoms include sneezing, a runny nose, coughing, and a sore throat as well as many other symptoms. However, these can often be the signs of many other health diseases, including food intolerance. Some individuals are able to cope with their symptoms and go about their daily life, however, some people might feel physically ill and their work and social life can be affected.
But is there a connection with mental health?
Suffering from a food allergy has been linked to higher rates of depression and suicidal behaviour. However, this doesn’t mean that everyone who has an allergy will suffer from depression and anxiety, but it also doesn’t mean that if you suffer from depression and anxiety that you have an allergy. It is important to remember that food intolerance can also affect your mental health and get you down.
Why can a food intolerance or allergy cause you to feel down?
If you are experiencing symptoms of an allergy or a food intolerance then you will likely report findings that you feel down. Anyone who feels under the weather for a length of time is likely to get down about their symptoms, especially if they do not know what is causing them. If the food that you are intolerant to is a major staple of your diet, then it is likely that you will have more bad days than good, meaning you are likely to suffer from depression.
Remember, your mood disorders can occur separately of allergies
Getting rid of your allergies and intolerances may not mean that your mood disorders will change. You may still feel anxious about the foods that you eat, and how your body might react, but it could also leave you feeling a lot better about yourself! Alongside ordering a food intolerance from Test Your Intolerance or consulting your doctor on allergies, you can also try exercising or getting a lot of sleep.
If you suspect you have a food allergy, please consult your doctor immediately. If you think you have a food intolerance, you can order your test here. It may help you to identify what is causing your symptoms. If you have any questions, please speak to our customer service advisors via LiveChat on a 24-hour basis.