20% of Spaniards suffer from some type of food intolerance. This figure highlights the importance of understanding and managing the digestive disorders. The 2025 guide arrives to improve our digestive wellness.
In Spain, training on allergens is governed by Royal Decree 126/2015. This decree is aligned with European Regulation 1169/2011. Both underline the need to be informed about food challenges.
This guide will help you identify and manage food intolerances. We will explore recent advances in their understanding and treatment. We will offer you tools to improve your quality of life.
Spanish restaurants have been required to have an allergen menu since 2014. This ensures that they provide information about allergens to customers. The measure seeks to ensure food safety for all diners.
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Food intolerances: Basic guide 2025
Key points
- 20% of the Spanish population suffers from some food intolerance
- The legislation establishes 14 allergens that must be declared in the EU
- Restaurants must provide allergen information
- Allergen training is crucial for hospitality staff
- Proper allergen management improves customer satisfaction
- Digital allergen charts make it easy to update information
Basic concepts on food intolerances
Food intolerances are adverse reactions to certain foods. They can affect the quality of life of those who suffer from them. Unlike allergies, they do not involve the immune system in the same way.
These reactions can cause symptoms of food intolerance equally uncomfortable. Symptoms are often bothersome and affect daily well-being.
Difference between food allergy and food intolerance
The distinction between allergy and intolerance is crucial for proper management. Allergies involve an immediate immune response. Intolerances usually have a more gradual onset.
The symptoms of food intolerance may include digestive upset and abdominal pain. They may also cause fatigue and other health problems.
Main causes of intolerances
Food intolerances can arise for various reasons:
- Digestive enzyme deficiency
- Sensitivity to food additives
- Reactions to certain natural components of foods
The problematic foods Common foods include dairy, gluten and fructose. It is important to identify which foods trigger your symptoms. This helps to effectively manage the condition.
Impact on quality of life
Food intolerances can significantly impact daily wellbeing. Living with an intolerance requires adaptation and understanding. It can involve dietary restrictions and social impacts.
Early identification and proper management are key. These steps help minimize the impact on daily life. They also help maintain a good quality of life.
«Understanding the difference between allergy and intolerance is the first step to effectively managing your dietary health.»
Food intolerances: Basic guide 2025
Food intolerances are common in Spain. This guide explains the common types, symptoms and risk factors. You will learn how to identify and manage these conditions.
Most common types of intolerances
In 2025, the most frequent intolerances are:
- Lactose intolerance
- Gluten sensitivity
- FODMAP intolerance
Un food intolerance test can reveal these problems. Lactose intolerance affects 65-70% of adults globally. Celiac disease has a prevalence of 1% of the population.

Characteristic symptoms
Symptoms often include:
- Digestive problems
- Abdominal pain
- Swelling
- Fatigue
Up to 50% of people with celiac disease have extra-digestive symptoms. These cases require specialized nutritional care.
Factors riesgo
Factors that increase the risk of intolerances are:
- Genetics
- Age
- Underlying health conditions
Management may include dairy-free or low FODMAP diets. Studies show that 60% of patients improve with dietary changes.
Intolerance | Prevalence | Dietary management |
---|---|---|
Lactose | 65-70% of adults | Dairy-free diet |
Gluten | 1% of the population | Gluten free diet |
FODMAPs | Variable | Low FODMAP diet |
Diagnosis and detection of intolerances
Diagnosing food intolerances is a complex process. It requires specialized medical attention. Symptoms can vary in intensity and manifestation.
The breath test is the most common test. It measures the body's ability to digest certain sugars. The blood test assesses the immune response to specific foods.

The elimination diet helps to identify intolerances. It consists of removing suspected foods and gradually reintroducing them. It requires patience and careful monitoring of symptoms.
«Careful observation of symptoms and keeping a food diary are valuable tools in the diagnostic process»
There is no foolproof test to confirm food intolerances. Combining methods and medical supervision offers more accurate results.
- Breath test
- Blood Tests
- elimination diet
- food diary
If you suspect a food intolerance, seek professional help. A specialist will guide you through the diagnosis. He or she will help you develop a plan to improve your quality of life.
Nutritional management and dietary adaptation
Dietary adaptation is crucial to managing food intolerances. personalized nutrition considers the needs of each person. This is how an appropriate dietary plan is created.
Specific diets according to the type of intolerance
For lactose intolerant people, a dairy free diet It is essential. It involves eliminating milk and dairy products, using plant-based alternatives.
La low FODMAP diet It is suggested for irritable bowel syndrome. It helps reduce uncomfortable digestive symptoms.

Food alternatives and substitutes
There are options to replace problematic foods:
- Almond or soy milk for lactose intolerant people
- Gluten-free flours for celiacs
- Natural sweeteners for fructose intolerant people
Personalized meal plan
A plan of personalized nutrition considers factors such as:
- Type of intolerance
- food preferences
- Lifestyle
- Health goals
Intolerance | Foods to avoid | recommended alternatives |
---|---|---|
Lactose | Milk, cheese, yogurt | Vegetable drinks, mature cheeses |
Gluten | Wheat, barley, rye | Rice, quinoa, corn |
FODMAP | Garlic, onion, apple | Aromatic herbs, carrot, banana |
In 2024-2025, there will be 40 hours of theoretical classes on nutrition and dietetics. Eight hours will be devoted to solving practical cases. Students will delve into crucial food health issues.
Prevention and good practices in restoration
Food safety is vital to prevent digestive problems. Restaurants must have strict protocols in place to handle problematic foods. This protects people with food intolerances.
Whether you want to eliminate or reduce certain ingredients from your diet as a lifestyle choice, have food allergies or intolerances, or want to cook for people who do, you'll find all the inspiration you need in this book.
Food safety protocols
Temperature control is key when handling food. The danger zone for bacteria is between 5°C and 65°C. It is crucial to refrigerate food between 0°C and 5°C.
- Store meat up to 7°C
- Dairy products pasteurized up to 8°C
- Mayonnaise with pasteurized egg products for a maximum of 48 hours at 4°C
Safe food handling
Cross contamination is a risk for people with intolerances. Use separate utensils and surfaces for problematic foods. When frying, do not exceed 180°C when reusing oils.

Consumer information on allergens
Transparency prevents adverse reactions. Restaurants should clearly disclose the ingredients in each dish. Common allergens should be highlighted so that customers can make informed decisions.
«Food safety is the responsibility of everyone in the catering industry. Proper information about allergens is not only a legal obligation, but also an ethical one.»
Some establishments excel at catering to special dietary needs. Pistacho Coffee Brunch in Tenerife and San Sebastian offers delicious and safe options for everyone.
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Conclusion
Food intolerances affect many people. personalized nutrition It is key to improve the digestive wellness. 2% of adults and up to 5% of children suffer from food allergies.
Knowledge of these conditions has greatly advanced. 80% of allergic reactions occur on the skin and mucous membranes. Rapid intervention is crucial in these cases.
Restaurants like Pistacho Coffee Brunch offer safe options. These establishments are located in Tenerife and San Sebastian. Their menu takes into account the dietary restrictions of diners.
Education and personalized attention will be vital in the future. 47.1% of Spaniards associate a healthy diet with more fruits and vegetables. We are on the right track.
Schools adapt special menus for children with intolerances. Awareness of a varied diet is crucial. These steps improve the quality of life of those with food intolerances.
