Are Food Allergies Being Over Diagnosed?

Allergies are a common concern, and it’s easy to assume that any reaction is linked to something we’ve eaten. But not every symptom points to a true food allergy. In our latest podcast, Dr. Gurmeet Soni Bhalla spoke with Dhruv Gupta, Co-founder of Orange Health Labs, about why overdiagnosis of allergies is a growing issue and how to tell the difference between allergies and other sensitivities.

Watch the clip here

Why Not Every Reaction Means an Allergy

Dr. Bhalla explains that people often connect common symptoms such as swelling or itching directly to food. While it can sometimes be the case, many of these reactions are not caused by allergies at all. The tendency to self-diagnose leads to unnecessary worry and food restrictions.

The Difference Between Intolerance and Allergy

A true food allergy is defined by an intense reaction. This can include more severe symptoms that require medical attention. In contrast, issues like bloating, mild diarrhea, or discomfort after eating are more likely signs of food intolerance or sensitivity, which are not the same as allergies.

How Mislabeling Reactions Leads to Unnecessary Restrictions

Labeling every reaction as an allergy can cause confusion and result in avoidable dietary restrictions, especially for children. Understanding the difference allows families to focus on genuine health concerns while not limiting foods unnecessarily.

Dr. Bhalla expands on this important distinction in The Orange Club Podcast: Why Preventive Care Matters for Children