Let us talk about Allergies and Intolerances!

And let’s add in Autoimmune!

You could be excused for thinking these are new or fads. However, I suggest that the case is more that they are both more diagnosed and more prevalent today due to the environment and other assaults on our food and our immune system.

As science progresses in this field, it is hoped that one day the cause and effects will lessen in health, environment, and food tampering.

Until then,

The outcomes of intolerances, allergies and autoimmune are significantly different yet similar. They may be digestive symptoms, however, just as likely they can present as pain, skin, sleep or emotional/behavioural complaints.

Food Intolerances refer to just that “intolerance” of your system to a particular food or substance. Where your body may have tolerated it up until now, you may not have noticed its effects, not paid much attention to what appeared to be your normal or chosen to look the other way.

Many people have said ‘I was intolerant’ to dairy as a child, but now I can have it. This demonstrates that your body may have learnt to ‘tolerate’ it. In many cases, the outcome early was that the symptom was removed (think tonsils or adenoids) or band-aided (think grommets). Unfortunately, the tonsils and other symptoms were your body telling you there was a problem. Once removed as the whistle-blower, the problem was transferred elsewhere in the body to show up later.

Food intolerances typically show some indication within 24 hours of consuming and may be annoying or ‘normal for you’.

Allergies or Auto-immunity signs typically present within 20-40 minutes after consumption or exposure. They usually are more prominent or intense than intolerance. In the case of Autoimmune, the reaction can last for days and the side effects on your system compound.

It is well-established that dairy plays a role in many respiratory, ear, nose and throat conditions. Both dairy and gluten often play a role in behavioural, ASD, digestive and skin disorders. Removing these can provide real relief for many people.

The seven most commonly known allergens are responsible for a variety of health issues, and these can be quickly identified if not by, then by a qualified Nutritional Medicine Practitioner. 

Top 7 allergens:

  • Wheat
  • Dairy
  • Eggs
  • Fish
  • Nuts
  • Soy
  • Casein (a protein found in milk and other dairy products)

A great way to start is a basic elimination trial.

You can simply remove a possible allergen from your diet for two weeks and see how your body reacts.

Is there any change in your symptoms?

Are you feeling better or worse?

If more than one allergen plays a role, it becomes a bit more complex, and finding a Nutritionist who specialises in this field can be a valuable resource.

Prioritising your optimum long-term health means considering dietary and other less invasive changes before embarking on a more invasive path.

General anaesthetics all come with risks. All our organs are there for a reason. Carefully consider removing any of them because what seems like a ‘quick fix’ now may cause more problems down the track.

Why is it worth doing?

Short-term pain for long-term gain!