Food intolerances are on the rise in many Western countries, but still not enough is known about them. Are they the same as food allergies? And will you die if you eat the food you're intolerant to?

First the good news - food intolerances are not the same as food allergies, and they're rarely life-threatening. But they can make you very, very uncomfortable. Symptoms are wide and varied, and include feeling bloated and itchy, having gut-related problems, developing breathing difficulties and hay fever, feeling rundown, exhausted and just plain blah, and even experiencing mood swings, panic attacks and depression.

Perhaps you've been diagnosed with food intolerances but are struggling to find all the information you need on what you can eat to maintain a balanced - and flavourful - diet. Or perhaps you sense something is not right with your health, but are yet to receive a definitive diagnosis.

Why Can't I Eat This? is here to help. Using her personal experience of living with 13 food intolerances and the latest research, Julie-Ann Wrightson takes you through:

1. understanding the chemicals, preservatives and additives that commonly cause food intolerances - and how to spot them in the food you buy


2. staying below your food intolerance threshold


3. improving your gut health and building a healthy microbiome


4. reducing your stress and inflammation levels


5. eating a low-FODMAP and low-gluten diet.

Importantly, Wrightson shows you how to explore new and delicious foods that help you maintain a balanced diet and align with your health goals. Why Can't I Eat This? outlines your pantry essentials and includes a wealth of simple recipes that can be adjusted to suit your own dietary requirements - and help you live a flavourful life.