Food allergies cause changes in the digestive system, which can include diarrhea. Food allergies do not slow down the digestive system, however, food sensitivities and intolerances can. If you experience constipation after eating certain foods or a feeling of fullness long after you've eaten, consult with your physician.
Food Allergies
Food allergies occur when the body mistakenly interprets a certain food or additive as an allergen and releases histamine and antibodies in an effort to get rid of it. Unfortunately, the release of histamine causes reactions in the digestive system and skin moments after eating the "allergen." Foods that commonly cause food allergy reactions are nuts, peanuts, wheat and shellfish.
Symptoms
Once the histamine reaches organs in the body, you may begin to feel itchy and may notice a rash or hives all over your body or on certain parts of your body. Your skin may also become red and blister. Digestive symptoms of food allergies include abdominal pain and diarrhea. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical care immediately: trouble breathing, swelling in the mouth or throat or irregular heart beat, or palpitations. These are symptoms of a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis.
Considerations
If your digestion becomes slow and causes acid reflux, uncomfortable fullness or constipation after eating a certain food, you may have a food intolerance and not a food allergy. Food intolerances are caused by several factors, which include digestive disorders, lactose intolerance and irritable bowel syndrome. People with food intolerance may experience constipation, heartburn, abdominal bloating, abdominal pain and nausea after eating certain foods. Common foods that trigger food intolerance symptoms are wheat, milk, milk-based dairy products and gluten.
Relief
If you have acid reflux after eating certain foods, which causes your digestion to lag, use an over-the-counter antacid supplement. If you are constipated and bloated after eating, you can use over-the-counter fiber supplements, which work to bind food together in the intestines making for easier passage. Before using any over-the-counter supplement consult with your physician first.
