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Delving into the Spectrum

It’s crucial to differentiate between disordered eating and eating disorders. Disordered eating
encompasses unhealthy behaviours and attitudes towards food that fall below the diagnostic criteria for a
defined eating disorder. It may include restrictive eating, excessive exercise, emotional eating, and
unhealthy weight control methods. While less severe than full-blown eating disorders, it can
significantly impact physical and mental well-being, often serving as a precursor to more serious
conditions.
Eating disorders, on the other hand, are diagnosable mental health conditions characterised by severe
disturbances in eating behaviours and body image. The most common include:

Anorexia nervosa: This is a serious eating disorder characterised by severe weight restriction,
intense fear of weight gain, and distorted body image. People with anorexia often restrict food
intake, exercise excessively, and engage in purging behaviours such as vomiting or laxative use.

• Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID): This is a disorder characterised by a
persistent inability or unwillingness to eat enough to meet nutritional needs. People with
ARFID may have sensory sensitivities to food, fear of choking or vomiting, or other medical
conditions that make eating difficult.

• Bulimia nervosa: This is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating
followed by compensatory behaviours like purging (vomiting, laxatives, diuretics), excessive
exercise, or fasting. People with bulimia may have normal weight, be overweight or
underweight.

• Binge eating disorder: This is an eating disorder which involves frequent episodes of
uncontrolled overeating, followed by shame and distress, but unlike bulimia, there are no
regular compensatory behaviours.

• Other specified feeding or eating disorder (OSFED): This category is used for eating disorders
that do not meet the full criteria for anorexia nervosa, ARFID, bulimia nervosa, or binge eating
disorder. OSFED can include symptoms of both anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, or it can
present with other eating-related symptoms, such as picky-eating or rumination disorder.

Eating disorders can have a serious impact on an individual’s physical and mental health. They can lead to conditions such as malnutrition, electrolyte imbalance, heart problems, kidney damage, bone fractures, and in the most severe cases, even death.

Unmasking the Signs and Symptoms

Early identification is crucial for timely intervention and recovery. Recognizing the subtle and overt signs of disordered eating in a loved one can be challenging, as they may try to hide their behaviour or deny any problems. However, being observant and open to the possibility can make a significant difference in identifying and addressing the issue early on. Here are some areas to watch for:

Changes in Eating Habits:

• Extreme reduction in food intake, skipping meals frequently, eating very small portions, or avoiding entire food groups.
• Consuming large amounts of food in a short period, often in secret and followed by feelings of guilt or shame.
• Eating late at night, hiding food, or engaging in secretive rituals around meals.
• Constant talk about calories, diets, body image, or other people’s weight.
• Obsession with “clean” eating, restrictive meal plans, or extreme exercise routines.

Physical Changes:

• Noticeable changes in weight, especially within a short timeframe.
• Constant tiredness, lack of energy, difficulty concentrating, difficulty sleeping or sleeplessness.
• Digestive issues like constipation, bloating, acid reflux, or diarrhea.
• Skin changes like dryness or hair loss.
• For females, irregular or absent periods.
• Difficulty controlling body temperature.

Behavioural and Emotional Changes:

• Avoidance of social situations or activities that involve food.
• Increased anxiety, depressions, or sudden changes in mood.
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions due to preoccupation with food or body image that can impact on academic or work performance.
• Lying about food intake, hiding food wrappers, feeling out of control around food or being evasive about eating habits.
• Negative self-talk, low self-esteem, impulsivity, perfectionism, obsessive thoughts, and body image dissatisfaction.

Unveiling the Tangled Threads

Eating disorders arise from the complex interplay of biological, psychological and sociocultural influences. Understanding these contributing factors can help us understand the development of these conditions and identify potential risk factors.

Biological:

• Genetics may play a role. Research suggests certain genes may increase vulnerability to eating disorders.
• Imbalances in brain chemistry, specifically in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, can increase the likelihood of developing an eating disorder.
• Mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and trauma can be contributing factors.

Psychological

• Eating disorders can be a coping mechanism. Eating disorders can develop as a way of coping with various emotional, psychological or social challenges.
• Traits such as perfectionism and obsessive-compulsiveness can lead to rigid eating patterns and difficulty with flexibility.
• Eating disorders can provide a sense of control in situations where individuals feel they lack control over other aspects of their lives.
• Individuals who have experienced trauma may use eating disorder behaviours to numb emotional pain or gain a sense of control over their bodies.
• Major life changes such as transitions, losses, or challenges may trigger the development of eating disorders as a way to navigate the uncertainties.

Sociocultural

• Societal expectations for thinness and unrealistic beauty standards can contribute to negative body image and disordered eating behaviours.
• The portrayal of idealised body types in social and other media can exacerbate body image concerns and contribute to disordered eating behaviours.
• Diet culture and negative attitudes towards larger body sizes can fuel anxieties and unhealthy weight control behaviours as a means of boosting self-esteem or fitting in.
• Unhealthy family dynamics, such as criticism about weight or food can contribute to disordered eating patterns.

“Eating disorders are not just about food; they’re about feelings, self-worth, and identity.”                                            ~ Samantha Molineux, Psychotherapist

Beyond the Individual: The Cult of Perfectionism

Disordered eating is not solely a matter of individual struggles; it’s woven into the fabric of our societies, propelled by deeply embedded sociocultural values. Often disguised as ideals and aspirations, these values infiltrate our minds and bodies, shaping our relationship with food and with our own self-image. We are bombarded with images of impossibly thin, air-brushed faces and bodies in advertising, television and social media. Society is steeped in weight stigma, where larger bodies are often ridiculed and marginalised. The constant pressure to conform to a narrow beauty standard fuels shame, anxiety, and disordered eating behaviours.

Success in modern societies is often equated with physical appearance and outward achievements. Instead of celebrating the diversity of human bodies, modern culture fixates on perceived flaws and imperfections. The relentless pressure for perfection spills over into our relationship with food, leading to restrictive eating patterns and unhealthy weight control practices.

Combating disordered eating requires a systemic approach that extends beyond individual treatment. Societal shifts are crucial:

• Challenging unrealistic beauty standards and promoting diversity and body positivity in media and society.
• Challenging diet culture and weight stigma while educating young people about balanced nutrition and positive body image.
• Addressing underlying mental health issues by increasing access to mental health services and reducing stigma around getting help.
• Creating supportive environments and fostering supportive communities and workplaces that embrace all bodies and prioritize well-being.

Unravelling the Knot: Treatment and Recovery

“It’s crucial to understand,” says psychotherapist Samantha Molineux, “that while eating disorders may initially serve as a coping mechanism, they are not healthy or sustainable ways to manage life’s challenges. Individuals struggling with eating disorders should seek professional help to develop healthier coping strategies and work towards recovery.”

Seeking help for disordered eating can feel overwhelming. While the right treatment path will vary from person to person, the most successful treatment program will be one that incorporates a multi-modality approach. Psychotherapy and nutritional counselling can help chip away at negative thought patterns and rebuild a healthy relationship with food. Medical management ensures physical well-being, especially important in cases of malnutrition or electrolyte imbalances. Creative expression, through art therapy, movement, or journaling, gives voice to unspoken emotions and fosters self-compassion. Finally, social support, whether from family, friends, or support groups, offers a safety net and a sense of belonging. This holistic approach, addressing mind, body, and spirit, paves the way for a sustainable recovery. Key areas of treatment will include:

• Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is commonly used to address distorted thinking patterns, develop coping mechanisms, and foster self-acceptance.
• Nutritional counselling: A dietician or nutritionist can help individuals develop healthy, balanced eating habits while addressing nutritional deficiencies and rebuilding a healthy relationship with food.
• Medication: Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications can be helpful in some cases.
• Support groups: Connecting with others experiencing similar struggles can offer invaluable support.
• Family involvement:  Educating and involving family members can be a powerful catalyst for healing and a crucial safety net during challenging times.

The road to recovery is an individual journey, with individual timelines and challenges. With patience, self-compassion, and ongoing support, individuals can recover and live healthy, fulfilling lives.

Hope and Healing

Unravelling the complex web of disordered eating is no easy feat. It requires both personal courage and a collective shift in perspective. But within this tangled web, hope glimmers. By understanding the intricate threads of biological, psychological, and societal influences, we can weave a path toward healing and acceptance.

Recovery is a personal journey often marked by challenges and setbacks. Yet, with each step, we learn to navigate the distorted landscape of body image and replace unhealthy coping mechanisms with self-compassion and empowered choices. Psychotherapy, nutritional guidance, and the support of loved ones and communities become our guiding torches, illuminating the path to a more fulfilling relationship with food and with ourselves.

Beyond individual healing lies a larger transformation. We must dismantle the narrow confines of beauty standards and societal pressures that fuel disordered eating. By challenging the cult of perfectionism and embracing diversity, we can rewrite the narrative around food and body image, fostering a world in which well-being, not appearance, is the true measure of achievement.

This journey, though arduous, holds immense promise. By nurturing self-acceptance, dismantling societal pressures, and fostering supportive communities, we can unravel the web of disordered eating, thread by thread, and weave a tapestry of hope, resilience, and a newfound love for ourselves and our bodies. In doing so, we pave the way for a future where everyone can nourish their well-being and embrace the beauty of their unique existence.

If you’re concerned about disordered eating for yourself or someone you love, reaching out is crucial. Start by talking to your GP who can provide guidance and connect you with support resources. Early intervention can make a big difference in recovery. For immediate help, you can ring the Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511, for advice and referrals to mental health services in your community.

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First Light Healthcare is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Medical Administrator to join our dynamic team. The Senior Medical Administrator will play a pivotal role in coordinating and overseeing administrative functions across First Light Healthcare, ensuring the smooth operation of healthcare services. This position requires a combination of strong organisational skills, leadership abilities, and a deep understanding of medical administration processes.
 

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership to the medical administration team, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to organisational policies. Supervise and mentor administrative staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Collaborate with senior management to develop and implement strategic plans for medical administration, aligning with organizational goals. Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency within the medical department.
• Oversee patient registration, scheduling, and billing processes to optimize patient experience. Implement and maintain effective systems for medical records management, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Foster strong working relationships with medical staff, supporting effective communication and collaboration. Collaborate with other departments to streamline cross-functional processes and enhance overall organizational performance.
• Ensure adherence to relevant healthcare regulations and standards. Implement and enforce policies and procedures related to medical administration.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in a senior administrative role within the healthcare sector preferred.
• Strong knowledge of medical office procedures, billing, and electronic health records.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Familiarity with healthcare compliance standards.
• Experience with Best Practice, Cubiko, HotDoc preferred

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and qualifications to [email protected] . Please include “Senior Medical Administrator Application – [Your Name]” in the subject line.

We look forward to hearing from you

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More than 500,000 Australians consult their doctors about kidney disease and urinary tract infections every year. More concerning is one in three Australian adults are at risk of developing chronic kidney disease, and one in ten Australians exhibit some sign of chronic kidney disease.*

Over a lifetime, one in three women and one in 10 men will suffer a bladder infection. Additionally, one in 35 women and one in 10 men will have kidney stones. *

Put simply, our kidneys are the unsung working heroes of our bodies as they perform a range of vitally important jobs in maintaining our overall health. Our kidneys control our blood pressure, they clean our blood creating urine, and they also manage the production of Vitamin D.

What is Kidney Disease?

Our kidneys are two, fist-sized bean-shaped organs that are invaluable to our good health with our kidneys acting as the body’s waste filtration system. Impressively, our kidneys filter our blood 12 times per hour with excess water, unwanted chemicals and waste in the blood then disposed of as urine. Kidney disease occurs when our kidneys are damaged and are not filtering our blood as effectively as they should.

What are the Symptoms of Kidney Disease?

Often called the ‘silent disease’, kidney disease can often present few or no symptoms at first even when they are not working as they should. The reason why kidney disease is called the silent disease is that you can lose up to 90 per cent of your kidneys’ function before experiencing any noticeable symptoms.

Some Signs and Symptoms of Kidney Disease Include:

• A change in the frequency and quantity of urine you pass, especially at night (usually an increase of urinating initially)
• The presence of blood in your urine (known as haematuria)
• Any changes in your urine, especially a foamy appearance
• The presence of puffiness around your legs and ankles (called oedema)
• Experiencing pain in your back – this generally located under the lower ribs, where the kidneys are located
• Any pain or burning when you pass urine
• High blood pressure

If your kidneys begin to fail, waste products and extra fluid build-up in your blood. This, and other problems, gradually leads to:

• A general feeling of being unwell
• Tiredness and inability to concentrate 
• A loss of appetite 
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Itching, especially the on legs, buttocks and arms
• Bad breath and a metallic taste in the mouth

What are the Risk Factors for Kidney Disease?

You are greater risk of developing chronic kidney disease if the following apply:

• You have high blood pressure
• You have diabetes
• You have heart problems such as a previous heart failure or heart attack, or you have had a stroke
• You are obese
• You are age over 60 years
• You have a family history of kidney failure
• You are a smoker 
• You have a history of acute kidney injury
• You are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin

High Blood Pressure and Kidney Disease

High blood pressure (known as hypertension) is increased pressure inside the arteries that carry blood from your heart to all parts of your body. If left untreated, high blood pressure can eventually damage your kidneys. 

Additionally, high blood pressure can develop as a result of kidney disease or renal artery stenosis (the narrowing of the main artery to one or both of your kidneys). Your kidneys also control the amount of fluid in your blood vessels and produce a hormone called renin that helps to control blood pressure.

Diabetes and Kidney Disease

It is estimated that about 20 to 30 per cent of people with diabetes develop a type of kidney disease that is called diabetic nephropathy. This is a serious disease that may worsen other diabetic complications such as nerve and eye damage, as well as increasing the risk of cardiovascular (heart) disease. 

Diabetic nephropathy is the main cause of kidney failure. This is also referred to as ‘end-stage kidney disease’ or ESKD. * 

Kidney Disease and Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death in people with chronic kidney disease. Compared to the general population, people with ongoing kidney disease are two to three times more likely to have cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) problems.

This increased risk is partly caused by factors common to both chronic kidney disease and cardiovascular disease, especially if you have high blood pressure. Researchers are now discovering that chronic kidney disease is an important risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. A history of cardiovascular disease in turn, is also a risk factor for the development of chronic kidney disease. 

Kidney Disease can Cause the Following Cardiovascular Risks:

• Heart attack
• Angina
• Stroke
• Heart failure

How is Kidney Disease Diagnosed?

Early diagnosis and optimal management can help to prevent any kidney damage from becoming worse and can reduces the risk of kidney failure. As outlined previously, kidney disease often displays few, if any symptoms other than a general sense of tiredness, headaches and feeling nauseous, making it important for you to monitor your general health and to visit your doctor if you feel any of these general symptoms of ill health.

In the first instance, typically, your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical examination to determine kidney disease. The types of tests your doctor may undertake will depend on your symptoms, your age, medical history, lifestyle and general health.

Types of Tests for Kidney Disease Include:

• Urine tests
• Blood pressure test
• Blood tests
• Imaging
• A kidney biopsy

Urine Tests for Kidney Disease

If your kidneys are damaged or inflamed, they may produce substances such as blood or protein into your urine. The test for detecting protein in the urine is known as a ACR Urine test. This test will detect the amount of albumin (a type of protein) in the urine. 

If you have diabetes, consistently high blood pressure or you are at risk of other factors for kidney disease, then your doctor may request a regular ACR Urine test every two years.

Blood Tests for Kidney Disease

The best measure of kidney function is the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR), which can be estimated from a blood test that checks the blood for creatinine – a waste product made by muscle tissue. * 

Blood tests can reveal other abnormalities of kidney function, such as: 

• High levels of acids (acidosis)
• Anaemia (insufficient red blood cells or haemoglobin, the protein in our red blood cells that transports oxygen)
• High levels of potassium (hyperkalaemia)
• Low levels of salt (hyponatraemia)
• Changes to the levels of calcium and phosphate

Imaging Tests for Kidney Disease

Tests that create various pictures or images of your kidneys may include:*

• X-rays – to check the size of the kidneys and look for kidney stones
• Cystogram – a specific X-ray of the bladder
• Voiding cystourethrogram – where the bladder is X-rayed before and after urination
• Ultrasound – this is when sound waves are ‘bounced’ off the kidneys to create a picture and can be used to check the size of the kidneys, detect kidney stones and any blood vessel blockages that may be visible on ultrasound
• Computed tomography (CT) – X-rays and digital computer technology are used to create an image of the urinary tract, including the kidneys 
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) – a strong magnetic field and radio waves are used to create a three-dimensional image of the urinary tract, including the kidneys.
• Radionuclide scan

Biopsy for Kidney Disease

A biopsy means that a small piece of tissue is taken for testing in a laboratory. Biopsies used in the investigation of kidney disease may include:

• Kidney biopsy – the doctor inserts a special needle into the back, under local anaesthesia, to obtain a small sample of kidney tissue. A kidney biopsy can confirm a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease.
• Bladder biopsy – the doctor inserts a thin tube (cystoscope) into the bladder via the urethra. This allows the doctor to view the inside of the bladder and check for abnormalities. This procedure is called a cystoscopy. The doctor may take a biopsy of bladder tissue for examination in a laboratory.

What are the Treatments for Kidney Disease?

Kidney disease can be slowed and sometimes even prevented if detected early enough. In the early stages, changes to diet and medication can help to increase the life and efficiency of your kidneys. 

For those with kidney function that is reduced to less than 10 per cent of normal kidney health, this loss of function will need to be replaced by dialysis or a kidney transplant. Dialysis is a treatment for kidney failure that removes waste products and extra water from the blood by filtering it through a fine membrane filter.

Prevention of Kidney Disease

It’s important to keep your kidneys healthy so they can perform the important tasks they are designed for throughout your life. If your kidneys are not healthy, other organs in your body may suffer that can lead to further health complications. Medication and changes to your lifestyle, along with a referral to a kidney specialist can prevent or delay kidney failure.

Heathy Choices for Healthy Kidneys 

It’s important to take care of your overall health – and this includes taking care of your kidneys. Things you can do include to protect your kidneys from disease include:**

• Having your blood pressure checked regularly and ensuring it stays below the levels recommended by your doctor. If you do have high blood pressure, there is a range of medications that can work to help regulate your blood pressure to a healthy level.
• Monitoring your blood glucose levels if you have diabetes to ensure that you stay within a healthy range.
• Leading an active, healthy lifestyle and maintaining a healthy weight.
• Eating lots of fruit and vegetables including legumes (such as beans) and grain-based food including wholemeal bread, pasta, noodles and rice.
• Avoid fatty meats and eat lean meat such as chicken and fish each week.
• Eat only small amounts of salty or fatty foods.
• Drink plenty of water instead of sugary soft drinks and fruit juices.
• Stay fit by doing at least 30 minutes of physical activity that increases your heart rate at least five days a week. These activities can include walking, lawn mowing, bike riding, swimming, gentle aerobics or yoga. 
• If you smoke, quit. Speak to your doctor for tips and available resources to help you with quitting for life.
• Limit your alcohol to no more than two small drinks per day if you are male, or one small drink per day if you are female.
• Do things that help you to relax and reduce your stress levels such as meditation.

Where to Get Support:

Kidney Health Australia

* https://kidney.org.au/your-kidneys/know-your-kidneys/keeping-your-kidneys-healthy

Sources:

*https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/kidney-disease#bhc-content ** https://kidney.org.au/your-kidneys/know-your-kidneys/keeping-your-kidneys-healthy

By Tracey Hordern

Reviewed by the First Light Healthcare team

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First Light Healthcare has consistently been delivering primary health care services to the wider Northern Rivers communities since 1977. As a progressive, vertically integrated primary healthcare provider offering a comprehensive array of medical, allied health and medical specialist services, we identified the need for evidence-based, holistic rehabilitation treatment programs based in the Byron Shire.

Raindrum provides bespoke, private rehabilitation treatment programs that are a natural extension of First Light Healthcare’s patient-first, outcome-oriented ethos. Our doctors, allied health practitioners and medical specialists are non-judgmental and pride themselves on delivering the highest possible standards of acute and preventative health care for clients from all over the world.

Raindrum’s approach to addressing mental health issues and drug and alcohol misuse is firmly founded on treating each individual as unique, with this philosophy backed by a practice of one client, one luxury home, one dedicated team.

Raindrum employs a highly qualified and experienced clinical team of medical staff, allied health professionals including highly regarded psychologists and experiential specialists, each working together as a team while adhering to strict clinical and client management processes. 

Issues clients may be dealing with can include – and in many cases can be a combination of – addiction and dependency, anxiety, depression, vocational stress, disordered eating, relationship conflict, sports and personal performance.

Raindrum’s treatments are crafted from a comprehensive combination of medical, psychological, physical, nutritional and experiential therapies. Each is designed to complement the others and so nurture the mind, body and spirit in harmony.

So exactly how is a successful program designed specifically for the individual achieved? According to Frederique Blunden, Raindrum’s Program Co-Ordinator, “The first step to building a highly personalised program are the initial clinical assessments with our Clinical Director and our lead psychologist which are conducted prior to admission.”

“Information gleaned from these two appointments form the basis of how the program is tailored – which staff will be best suited to the client, and how many therapy sessions the client requires.”

“Additionally, we determine with the client, what exercise modality will best support them, what creative pursuits, mindfulness skills and dietary plan should be introduced as well as any medical assessments the individual is requiring.”

“No two programs are ever the same. We build the program from the ground up to address the unique needs of our clients.”

Frederique Blunden, Raindrum’s Program Co-Ordinator

Based in Byron Bay in Northern New South Wales, Raindrum offers some of the most spectacular accommodation available in the region. Whether a luxury beachfront home, a blissful hinterland retreat or an exclusive resort, Raindrum treatment programs are designed for every client to feel connected to, and inspired by their surroundings.

From acute situations to preventative strategies, Raindrum’s team dedicate their work to bringing positive and lasting change to their clients to help them to live their best lives.

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While food allergies are more serious than food intolerances, to varying degrees they can both impact your health, wellbeing and lifestyle. And if you think that food allergies and intolerances are on the rise, you would be absolutely right. Across the entire Western world, there has been an alarming rise in the rates of both food allergies and intolerances – especially over the past 30 years. In fact, Australia now holds the dubious crown as the global capital of food allergies, closely followed by the UK. ***

Food Allergies and Food Intolerances on the Rise

Food allergies are now seen in 10 per cent of infants, 4-8 per cent of children and approximately 2 per cent of Australian adults. While many young children outgrow their food allergies, allergies that develop in adults typically persist. Hospital admissions for anaphylaxis in Australia have doubled in the past decade, with the increase for children aged up to four-years-old even higher – with a five-fold increase in the last 10 years. ***

Recent studies show that higher levels of food allergies are more prevalent in urban areas compared to rural environments. One study in Melbourne found that children with vitamin D deficiency were 11 times more likely to develop a peanut allergy. Conversely, children with older siblings and pets are less likely to develop allergies, possibly due to greater exposure to microbes. ***

Allergies and Intolerances and the Role of the Gut

The gut microbiome has been altered by the recent changes in food manufacturing, food production and high sugar diets over the past 50 years. Previous advice to avoid allergens during the weaning phase to solids is now outdated, with significant research showing that exposure to known allergenic foods is a protective factor.

It is now recommended that all children, regardless of their family history of allergies, be exposed to allergenic foods during the first 12 months of life. The gut’s immune system then recognises these foods as belonging to normal food groups and therefore less likely to develop an allergic response. ***

What is the Difference Between Food Allergies and Food Intolerance?

Food intolerances are often confused with food allergies.  An important medical difference is that while both occur as a result of the immune system reacting to a perceived ‘harmful’ food, an intolerance typically effects only the digestive system whereas an allergy can affect the entire body. Importantly, food allergies can trigger anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening response, however intolerances (except for sulphite and benzoate reactions) do not. *

The Differences in Simple Terms

·      Food allergies can affect the entire body (lungs and airways, skin, gut etc) and are often lifelong

·      Food intolerances are typically localised to the digestive tract and can be resolved

Speaking with Gabrielle Coulthurst, First Light Healthcare’s Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD, BNutDiet), foodallergies are typically more serious than an intolerance and can even be life threatening if untreated. “The reaction of a food allergy is usually immediate and even a small amount of the allergen can trigger a severe immune response. The allergen must be avoided as much as possible – even small contaminants can cause a severe response and can even long-term health issues if unmanaged, such as an increased risk of chronic diseases.”

“The symptoms of a food allergy can affect many parts of the body ranging from the gut to the respiratory system, even brain function, joint pain or skin reactions”

Food intolerances are typically less serious (not life threatening) compared to allergies, explains Gabrielle. “Food intolerances are typically delayed in their onset – taking anywhere from four minutes to four days to see a reaction, and they are often ‘dose-dependent’. This means that a small amount of the trigger food can be tolerated with no symptoms, but larger amounts will then trigger an immune response.”

“Each individual has a different threshold as to how much of the trigger food/s their immune system will tolerate and often intolerances will only affect the gut. Whilst allergies are usually developed from birth, intolerances can come and go and they can be developed over years due to a variety of factors that impact the immune system, such as the gut barrier and gut microbiome, and/or the liver.”

Gabrielle cites other contributing factors that may develop food intolerances including a history of IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) and IBD (Irritable Bowel Disease) as well as gut issues, frequent antibiotic use, chronic mental or physical stress, autoimmune conditions, viruses and parasite infections.

“Then there is the term ‘food sensitivity,’” explains Gabrielle. “This term is used more in alternative medicine spaces, refering to a milder inflammatory reaction that is often delayed.”

What are the Most Common Food Allergies?

According to Gabrielle the most common allergens in foods are gluten, dairy, peanuts, chocolate, legumes, eggs, tree nuts, shellfish and fish, caffeine, soy, yeast, corn, citrus, beef, MSG and food additives and salicylates.

What are the Most Common Symptoms of Food Allergies and Intolerances?

Typical Food Allergy Symptoms 

Food allergies symptoms can range from skin rashes and anaphylaxis, to diarrhoea, weight gain, migraines, muscle pain and fatigue. Additionally, according to Gabrielle if these allergies are not identified and treated, “They can worsen other pre-existing health issues such as IBS, joint pain, chronic fatigue and even your blood sugar levels.” 

Symptoms can vary from person to person depending on how strongly the immune system reacts to the allergen. The most common symptoms of a food allergy reaction are: 

·      Anaphylaxis

·      Swelling lips

·      Coughing and wheezing and shortness of breath

·      Dizziness or lightheaded

·      Feeling sick and nauseous

·      Stomach pain, diarrhoea, bloating and reflux

Other symptoms explains Gabrielle can include fatigue, weight gain, inflammation and pain, skin hives and rashes to joint pain, muscle pain, depression, brain fog, migraines, headaches, and unexplained nutrient deficiencies such as iron, b12 and zinc.

Typical Food Intolerances Symptoms 
These typical symptoms of food intolerances cites Gabrielle can include stomach pain, bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea, IBS, rashes, ulcers, and can also include hives, fatigue, or headaches. “While typically mild compared to food allergy symptoms, if food intolerances are not properly managed and treated, these symptoms can greatly affect your general health and wellbeing.”

How Do You Treat Someone with Food Allergies?

Treating Food AllergiesEven after a successful diagnosis of food allergies, avoiding trigger foods is challenging and accidental exposures are common. A regular review of the allergy action plan and how to use an EpiPen is required as the time delay between a diagnosis and the need to use an EpiPen can be months or even years apart. Further research is continuing on the complex factors in food allergies and will be an evolving area of healthcare. ***

The only successful method of managing a food allergy or intolerance is to avoid the foods containing that allergen or food component, and work on repairing the gut lining and gut microbiome and strengthening the immune system. **

If you suspect you or a loved one are having an allergic reaction to food and you don’t have easy access an EpiPen, Gabrielle suggests you go to the hospital as these reactions can be very serious and harmful. “If you suspect that a certain food is causing an allergic reaction, see your GP to discuss a referral for a food allergy test.”

“Although research is being conducted into medications and supplements that can prevent allergies, such as aiming for a Coeliac to eat gluten with no adverse health issues, currently, there is no treatment. This means that the allergic food must be avoided as much as possible.”

Treating Intolerances
Compared to food that must be avoided long term for those that have an allergic response, intolerances can often be treated and resolved by removing the trigger food/s and treating the underlying cause,” explains Gabrielle. “Rebalancing the immune system to reduce its hypersensitivity to the trigger food/s, repairing the gut lining and addressing gut bacteria and correcting nutrient deficiencies, as well as addressing other potential triggers such as stress management and liver toxicity.”

“The specific elimination diet therapy used to treat your intolerance/s depends on your symptom picture. The goal of this diet is to identify known food triggers and then eliminating them to rest the immune system and to reach a stage of significantly reduced symptoms, then slowly reintroducing foods by testing one at a time.”

According to Gabrielle, commonly well-researched food intolerance therapies include a low FODMAP diet, an Antihistamine diet, the RPAH elimination diet, or an individualised elimination diet. Intolerances can also be prevented, such as someone with a lactose intolerance taking the lactose enzyme (lactase) and choosing to assist digestion and therefore avoiding a reaction. 

“These diets are often highly restrictive, so see a qualified nutrition expert such as a dietitian for tailored advice and support to help you implement your diet effectively and to help identify triggers and understand your symptom picture. It’s highly recommended you keep a food and symptom dairy and share it with your dietitian to help see patterns in intolerances and allergies.”

The Role of the Gut

Signs of an unhappy gut include constipation, diarrhoea, fatigue, reflux, bloating, gassiness and general gut pain. Sound familiar? Unfortunately, an unhealthy gut is extremely common, but there are strategies to improve your gut health.

Five Foods to add into your weekly routine to aid gut health, as suggested by nutritionist, Gabrielle Coulthurst:

1.     Soaked chia seeds – a great start to the day, find great Breakfast Chia Pudding recipes online.

2.     Brassica vegetables – including broccoli, broccoli sprouts, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprouts, cabbage. This group of vegetables is rich in a potent enzyme called sulforaphane which can have anti-inflammatory, cell-protecting, detoxifying, and gut-healing effects.

3.     Berries – Hallelujah for berries. These little nutrient-packed powerhouse are WONDERFUL for gut health for many reasons. They are rich in fibre which helps to feed the good but bacteria

4.     Oily fish, aim for 4 x servings of oily fish every week (preferably wild caught) – including tuna, salmon, sardines, mackerel, anchovies, and herring which are all rich sources of omega-3 anti-inflammatory and immune balancing fats

5.     Walnuts, linseeds and chia seeds are both good sources of plant-based omega-3

Sources:

* Allergy Facts Australia
https://allergyfacts.org.au/allergy-anaphylaxis/food-allergy-or-intolerance

** Food Authority NSW
https://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/consumer/life-events-and-food/allergy-and-intolerance

*** Medcast Australia
https://medcast.com.au/

FODMAP Diet
Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides and Polyols

RPAH Elimination Diet

Royal Prince Albert Hospital Elimination Diet 

By Tracey Hordern

Reviewed by Gabrielle Coulthurst

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