Characteristic of Food Allergies
and Nutrition
There is lots of confusion around the difference
between food allergies and food intolerances. A person with a food intolerance
is unable to digest and process that food correctly, usually due to
a lack of a certain enzyme or enzymes. It usually occurs when too much
of a particular food is eaten, or too often. Common offenders are wheat
and dairy, as well as eggs, oranges and sugar. If you avoid these foods
for a few months, you may find that you will be able to tolerate them
again in small quantities.
A food allergy, on the other hand, occurs
when a person’s immune system generates an antibody response to the
ingested food. Food intolerances can lead to allergy, however, if particles
of undigested food manage to enter the bloodstream and cause a reaction.
Allergies are often similar to an addiction, in so far as it’s often
the food you desire most that you’re allergic to.
Food intolerances are very common, and true
allergies less so. If you suspect you have either, it’s best to see
a nutritional consultant or allergy specialist who can test you and
also advise you on how to deal with any underlying digestive imbalances
that provoke allergies. By following an appropriate diet and taking
a few supplements, most cases of allergy can be dealt with.
In the meantime, Vitamin C, calcium and
magnesium, a digestive enzyme, and quercetin can be very helpful. L-Glutamine,
Butyric Acid, Vitamin A and Essential Fatty Acids will help heal the
gut so that allergies become less of a problem, if at all.
Allergies -
Diet advice and nutrition
facts
-
Follow a generally healthy diet.
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Avoid foods which you suspect might
be causing you problems. Especially avoid wheat and dairy, as these
are the most common allergens.
-
Other common allergens are yeast, strawberries,
eggs, corn, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine and sugar.
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If you appear to be sensitive to lots
of different foods, visit an allergy specialist or qualified nutrition
consultant, to ensure you still receive a balanced diet and sufficient
nutrients.
-
For children especially, food colourings
are a common problem, and monosodium glutamate (flavouring) often
causes skin rashes or hot flushes (Chinese Takeaway Syndrome).
This general advice will be sufficient for
many people, but others require specialist help as mentioned above.
Health Supplements
Often, a combination of supplements may
help in alleviating this condition. You may wish to consult a nutritional
therapist for personal advice. Supplements that may be helpful in alleviating
symptoms are shown below:
(please
also read this important notice concerning supplement medical claims)
Recommended Health Books
(back to top)
health book - Allergy Bible, The
health book - Eczema in Childhood
health book - The Paleo Diet
Also see Leaky Gut
Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network
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