WIC Works Resource System
U.S. Department of Agriculture
Food Intolerances, Celiac Disease, and Other Adverse Reactions
Lactose intolerance: This condition is caused by a lack of lactase, which is the intestinal enzyme that digests the sugar in milk known as lactose.
Celiac disease: This condition occurs when gluten – a combination of proteins found in wheat, rye, oats (unless gluten-free), barley, and buckwheat – damages the lining of the small intestine and interferes with nutrient absorption.
'Gluten-Free’ Means What it Says: This page provides information on gluten sensitivity and Celiac disease, how the FDA defines "gluten-free," the types of foods for which this definition is enforced, and reporting a product with unclear or wrong labeling.
Only a health care provider can make a diagnosis of an allergy, food intolerance, or celiac disease.
Other Adverse Reactions
Aside from allergic reactions and food intolerances, reactions can occur to other food-based sources such as:
Food additives like artificial food colorings
Natural substances in foods like caffeine or fiber
Germs that cause foodborne illness
REMEMBER: After a new food is introduced, caregivers should watch for the following reactions and talk with baby’s health care provider if these reactions are noted:
Excessive intestinal gas (e.g., certain vegetables, legumes)
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Skin rashes
Learn more at:
Food Allergy vs Food Intolerance: This page reviews the difference between a food allergy and food intolerance.