Decoding Dietary Dilemmas: Unmasking Suspect Food Chemicals and Their Hidden Haunts
By Julia Haimovich, Accredited Practicing Dietitian.
The intricate influence of food chemicals on health, particularly concerning the gut, is a subject that
calls for an in-depth exploration, delving into both the scientific approach and physiological
implications. It is a topic that has garnered increasing interest and concern due to the array of
adverse reactions experienced by many individuals. 1
Within this context, two primary categories of these substances come into focus: “suspect food
chemicals” and “provoking substances.”
Suspect food chemicals are natural compounds found in various foods, encompassing salicylates,
amines, and glutamates. Salicylates, present in an assortment of fruits, vegetables, and spices, have
long been acknowledged for their therapeutic properties but can trigger adverse reactions in
sensitive individuals. These reactions may manifest as headaches, digestive discomfort, or skin-related symptoms.
Amines, another group of naturally occurring compounds, are often found in
fermented and aged foods, including cheese and wine. These compounds have been associated with
adverse reactions, and their impact on gut health is a subject of ongoing study. Similarly, glutamates,
commonly encountered in foods like tomatoes and soy sauce, may provoke responses such as
headaches or gastrointestinal disturbances. 2
Conversely, provoking substances constitute a distinct group of chemicals primarily introduced into
processed foods as additives. This category encompasses flavour enhancers, preservatives,
antioxidants, colours, and flavours. They are utilised to augment taste, enhance appearance, and
extend shelf life in processed and packaged foods. However, certain individuals may exhibit
sensitivity to these additives, leading to symptoms such as gastrointestinal distress, skin reactions, or
headaches. The physiological underpinnings of these sensitivities remain a subject of active scientific
investigation. 1
The mechanisms governing individual responses to these food chemicals are multifaceted and not
yet fully elucidated. Genetics, the composition of gut microbiota, and an individual’s overall health
status all contribute to the variability in responses. The gut, as a central player in the digestion and
absorption of nutrients, plays a pivotal role in these reactions.
Individuals who suspect that food chemicals are impacting their health often turn to elimination
diets guided by both clinical observation and scientific principles. Through the systematic removal
and reintroduction of specific foods or food additives, individuals can pinpoint the precise
substances to which they are sensitive. This approach aids in the identification of triggers for adverse
reactions and enables the formulation of dietary adjustments. 3
Understanding the influence of food chemicals on health, particularly in the context of gut-related
symptoms, is imperative for individuals seeking relief from food-induced issues. This understanding
requires a comprehensive, personalised approach, encompassing not only dietary adjustments but
also an exploration of the complex interplay between food chemicals and physiological responses. It
serves as a testament to the importance of a scientific and individualised approach to nutrition and
healthcare, one that has the potential to alleviate adverse reactions, promote gut health, and
optimise overall well-being. The intricate world of food chemicals and their impact on health
continues to be an exciting and evolving area of study, promising deeper insights into personalised
nutrition and well-being.
- Tuck CJ, Biesiekierski JR, Schmid-Grendelmeier P, Pohl D. Food Intolerances. Nutrients. 2019;
11(7):1684. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11071684 - Jandric-Kocic, M. C. (2022). FOOD INTOLERANCE. ZDRAVSTVENA ZAŠTITA, 51, 79.
- Muthukumar, J., Selvasekaran, P., Lokanadham, M., & Chidambaram, R. (2020). Food and
food products associated with food allergy and food intolerance–An overview. Food Research
International, 138, 109780.
