Allergies

An allergy can be described as an abnormal reaction by the body's immune system to what would be considered a normal substance or thing.

Although people have allergic symptoms to a number of substances and things it is foods that are the most common provokers. Some allergic responses to foodstuffs are immediate and severe but some are delayed with reactions occurring a few hours to a few days after exposure. Because of this many people can suffer for years without realising they are allergic to a specific foodstuff.

Laboratory testing can identify allergic response to a wide range of foods. Once identified the offending substance can be removed from the diet and relief obtained. Some symptoms that can indicate food allergies are:

- Headaches
- Skin rashes
- Fluid retention
- Depression
- Fatigue
- Joint problems
- Respiratory difficulties
- Learning disorders
- Insomnia
- Anxiety

Food intolerance is also problematic in many people and can be caused by a number of factors. Intolerance differs from allergy in that allergic responses can be identified in a laboratory whereas food intolerances cannot.

Very often people are sensitive to the foods they eat or enjoy most, such as dairy, pastas, wheat, eggs, gluten etc. and because the reactions are delayed they do not link their ill health symptoms with the food they eat.

Chronic health problems that have not been identified by the doctor through appropriate medical tests etc. may be the result of a food intolerance or allergy.

In the meantime, stay healthy.