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
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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.
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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.
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For children especially, food colourings are
a common problem, and monosodium glutamate (flavouring) often causes skin
rashes or hot flushes (Chinese Takeaway Syndrome).
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This general advice will be sufficient for many
people, but others require specialist help as mentioned above.
Health Supplements
(Click on the supplement to go there.)
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