ALLERGIES – PART IV

We are what we eat, and that can sometimes lead to rashes, swelling congestion of the throat, wheezing, headaches, nausea, cramps, and vomiting.  All food sensitivities aren’t strictly a physiological problem.  Troublesome emotional behavior has also been linked to food sensitivities.  Sugar is a big culprit for this type of malady.  Symptoms include tantrums, hyperactivity, biting, hitting, learning difficulties and irritability in children.  Some even link food allergies with Attention Deficit Disorder. 

           Household allergens must also be addressed.  Of the 65,000 most commonly used chemicals, scientists are still striving to learn of their short or long term effects on the environment and the human body.  Approximately 600,000 new chemicals are registered per year with the American Chemical Society, and hundreds, if not thousands, wind up as commonly used new products.  Is it any wonder that experts are warning we may be headed for toxic  overload?  Chemical hypersensitivity is considered an allergy, and the field of environmental medicine is gradually becoming part of the mainstream.  We are an experimental generation.  Never before in history have we been exposed to such a high level of chemicals.  People can experience kidney and stomach problems, dizziness, disorientation and irritability along with other typically allergic symptoms.  We can control, to some degree, these chemical exposures.  For example, bottled water and organic foods are much more prevalent these days.  Within the home, low dosage, long-term chronic exposure to toxins in household cleaners and detergents, along with personal hygiene products, are more prevalent than you would think.  Fortunately, for those sensitive to such exposure, specific lines of hypoallergenic products are now available.  In the work environment, there is even a new diagnosis called the Sick Building Syndrome.  Modern-day architecture and construction calls for air-tight, energy-efficient structures.  This has unfortunately produced an unintended effect on indoor air pollution, leading to lost earnings due to illnesses and lost productivity on the job.

            One other item not yet mentioned is cigarette smoking.  One of the best health improvements we can do for ourselves, and one of the most difficult is to quit smoking.  Tobacco kills more Americans each year than alcohol, cocaine, crack, heroin, homicide, suicide, car accidents, fires and AIDS combined.  And that includes second-hand smoke exposure of family and friends.  In terms of an allergic reaction, one study found that children of smokers score lower on intelligence tests than those of non-smokers.  Smoking even contributes to back pain due to arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), and subsequent decreased blood flow to important muscles in the low back.  Smoking has also been found to cause ulcer development in the stomach and small intestines.

            Adrenal gland capability is very important in combating an allergic reaction, along with the liver and stomach.  The adrenal glands produce important hormones, like adrenalin, and corticosteroid, an anti-inflammatory hormone.  The adrenals also help the body combat stress that can trigger allergies.  Along with adrenal capacity, inappropriate and insufficient digestion of foods, especially protein in the stomach, can allow for allergic signs and symptoms.  In addition, the liver’s production level of antihistamine is important in keeping allergies in check.  And last, the nervous system as a whole helps maintain a healthy immune system necessary for optimum health.  All of these systems can be addressed and treated in various ways.  So, Bon Appetite my friends, as long as you aren’t allergic to it!