Food allergies tend to be self-diagnosed and are more often really food intolerances.
Misunderstandings about food allergies can result in unnecessary food restrictions. If taken to an extreme, this could lead to slow growth rates and an unbalanced diet. For adults, extensive food restrictions could lead to a limited an inadequate diet. The antibodies release chemicals, like histamine, that cause symptoms such as itchy skin or runny nose. True food allergies can be life threatening, especially if an anaphylactic reaction occurs.