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Archive for the ‘Allergy’ Category

Food allergy or intolerance?

One out of 3 North Americans believe that they are allergic to certain foods, but fewer than 1 percent have genuine allergies. For most people food intolerance is the reason for this confusion between the two. The other 29 percent are usually just unable to tolerate certain foods, often because they lack an enzyme needed for proper digestion.

Although, some people are sensitive to lactose, a sugar found in milk, however, they can tolerate other dairy products like cheese, yogary and sourcream. This is an example of food sensitivity or intolerance, NOT an allergy to diary products. A person with an allergic reaction would have a reaction to most types of dairy, and usually the symptoms are worse, and longer lasting.

Sometimes children cannot tolerate gluten, found in wheat products, but will grow out or the intolerance. On the other hand this could also be a allergic reaction to a protien in wheat. But the child would also react to anything that has wheat in it. Children can outgrow an allergy aswell, so sometimes it may be hard for even a doctor to tell weather or not it is an intolerance or an allergy without a blood test.

MSG (Mono-soduim glutamate) a flavor in foods, is a common trigger for a food intolerance.It is used as a flavor enhancer and can cause flushing, headaches, and numbness in certain people. Its not known how much MSG is needed to trigger a reaction, but it varries from person to person. Generally large amounts cause more severe allergic reactions.

Sulfites, used as a preservitive in many foods and wines, can cause sensitivity as well as trigger allergic reations. It depends on the person, the best way to check is to have a blood test done by a allergy specialist. They will be able to determain which type of reaction is causing you or your child problems, and properly treat what ever it is.

To find out more about allergies visit: What you need to know about allergies and how the effect you

Are you allergic to MSG? If you have a MSG allergy, you need to understand what it is and what foods might contain MSG. MSG is used to add to the flavor of foods or to bring out the taste of the food more. Chinese foods usually contain this taste enhancer as well as some American foods. In the grocery store you may have noticed on the front of some products they advertise, “Contains no MSG”. This is vital information for MSG allergy sufferers. One such food product that advertises no MSG is a dry mix for a Ranch Dressing, it contains no MSG enhancer and is safe for a MSG allergy sufferer.

Taken in large doses MSG can cause a feeling of warmth, sweating, headaches and chest pains. Moderate amounts of MSG may not cause any severe symptoms although you still need to refrain from eating foods that contain the additive. Living with an MSG allergy is not as easy as one would think. Foods such as canned soups and other popular foods contain the additive. It enhances the flavor of the foods and many manufactures are using this to add flavor to the product. Learning what foods contain MSG and the foods that do not is tough.

You will have to look at labels, do some research online and find the foods that do not contain this flavor enhancer. The reason for the intense research is because foods that contain MSG have to place it on the label, but if that food is combined with another food in a mixture, it does not have to be disclosed. If you suffer from MSG allergies, you should also refrain from eating foods containing sulfites and aspartame. Foods such as gum, candy and some drinks contain MSG without your knowledge.

Living with an MSG allergy is not going to be easy but with the proper knowledge and understanding about the additive will help you find foods that will not cause an allergic reaction. Staying away from flavorings such as soy sauce and beef, pork, chicken flavorings as well as malt flavorings and broths can help keep you free from an allergic reaction after eating. Food allergies and airborne allergies might require skin test or blood tests to determine the cause of the allergy, but a detailed report of what you eat and do are also important to narrow it down to a few things.

If you are allergic to pickles then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Ahh, pickles. We all love them! From the big juicy dills that go just perfectly with a sandwich and chips, to the sweet gherkins that grace our dinner tables. Pickles are a commodity that most everyone enjoys. But sadly, many people suffer from pickle allergies, and they aren’t even sure why. These allergies generally appear suddenly, and can be present in both children and adults. If you’ve started having strange reactions to your favorite snack, read on for more information about why pickle allergies occur.

The thing that most people don’t realize about pickle allergies, is that they are typically caused not by the pickle itself, but by the preservatives used in the pickling process. These pickling agents often cause allergic reactions in people who are then unable to pinpoint the cause of their reaction. The worst part about it, is that these preservatives can be found in a great many more foods than just pickles. Many foods that contain any type of vinegar also contain these pickling agents that can cause pickle allergies.

The most common additives that cause pickle allergies are as follows: sodium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, and sodium metabisulfite. If you have previously experienced any sort of allergic reaction to pickles, then it is likely that you are probably having a reaction to one or more of these ingredients. The easiest way to prevent this from occurring in the future is to carefully review the ingredients in any preserved foods, to make certain that they do not contain any of these ingredients.

The most common signs and symptoms of pickle allergies are pretty much the same as with any other food allergy. Hives, or a rash can occur, which can generally be treated with an external steroid cream, as can asthmatic symptoms, such as wheezing or difficulty drawing a breath. Other signs of pickle allergies may also include gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, cramps and diarrhea. The most severe symptoms of pickle allergies can progress into what is known as anaphylaxis. This is a swelling of the throat, which can completely block a person’s airway. This can lead to coma, and if untreated, even death.

The easiest way to prevent pickle allergies, is to set an appointment with your doctor so that he or she can perform allergy tests. These tests will let you know exactly which preservative it is that you are allergic to. To prevent future pickle allergies, simply avoid any foods which contain that particular preservative.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with allergies due to pickles such as vitamin A, vitamin C, beta carotene, bananas and pantothenic acid.

Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.

Vitamin C is nature’s protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system.

Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency.

Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Bananas have long been recognized for their anti-acid effects that protect against stomach ulcers and ulcer damage. Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

You’ve made a commitment to improve your diet by eating healthier foods. You find recipes and shop for ingredients, buying lots of fresh veggies, fruit and healthy snacks. At home and at work it’s pretty easy to follow your new nutritional program — you’ve resolved to stay on track! You get in the habit of preparing extra food for dinner so you have leftovers for lunch the next day and cut up your carrot and celery sticks to snack on the night before. All is going well, you’re feeling better and shedding a few unwanted pounds when suddenly you are faced with an unexpected trip — it could be for business or pleasure. You begin to wonder “How am I going stay on my program? I’m doing so well and now this!” Depending on the length of the trip, you begin to worry about temptations and the availability of the foods you’ve actually begun to enjoy. The following 3 Simple Tips will help you to be prepared to ‘eat healthy on the go’.

1) Plan ahead because you just might sabotage your success without careful planning. Begin by planning how you are going to carry a variety of convenient ‘to go’ foods and snacks to choose from. Depending on your flight time and length of stay, you may want to plan for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. Choose foods that travel well and be sure you have the means to keep them cool if necessary. Be sure your food choices are temperature appropriate and will not spoil or go rancid if not refrigerated. *See list below for ideas.

2) Know airline carry on restrictions to be sure your food and drink will not be confiscated because of improper packaging. You can check the requirements at http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm
Air tight leak proof containers are a must to avoid messy accidents.

3) Have a back up plan in case you run out of food or have flight delays. Carry cash or a credit card to purchase additional food and a list of acceptable foods if you have specific dietary needs or allergies. This is especially important if you have medications. Always carry extra meds than needed in case of emergency.

Since peanuts and pretzels just aren’t enough, a few of my favorite healthy travel foods are:

*Single serving packets of protein shake-add contents of packet to ice water and stir or shake for a nutritious meal replacement (I carry a 12 ounce screw top shaker bottle to avoid spills and extra packets of shake for emergencies)

*Hard boiled eggs (peeled and ready to eat)

*Apples (you can pre-slice and dip in lemon juice to prevent discoloring)

*Cut up carrot and celery sticks*High protein health bars (always a healthier choice than candy bars)

*Trail mix (organic if possible with no added sulfites)

*Dry-roasted almonds or peanuts

*High quality dark chocolate for unexpected chocolate cravings

Travel healthy, travel smart!

More and more children in developed countries suffer from asthma. In fact many doctors consider asthma to be a new epidemic. More than 10 million Americans suffer from asthma and most of them blame the condition on worsening environmental pollution and increased exposure to toxic chemicals in the air. Deaths from asthma continue to rise at an alarming rate largely because many people do not recognize the warning signs in time.

Asthma is a condition that causes the lung airways to swell, secrete thick mucus and eventually spasm. The swelling narrows the airways and makes breathing difficult and sometimes impossible. The first asthma attack can include wheezing (a sign that the airways are already constricted), congestion or pain in the chest, shortness of breath, dryness of mouth, coughing and a feverish feeling.

Almost anything can cause asthma. The most common triggers are an allergy, respiratory infection, emotional stress, strenuous exercise, or nutritional deficiency. Allergies tend to be the most common trigger off them all. Most asthma attacks follow exposure to environmental allergens like pesticides, pollen, cigarette smoke, natural gas odors and car exhaust. Foods that most likely trigger asthma are chocolate, peanuts, corn and dairy products. Waxes, artificial smoke, emulsifiers, thickeners, sulfites and artificial sweeteners in food are also more subtle asthma triggers. Asthma is also prompted by taking tranquilizers, hormones, or antibiotics.

You can take a number of vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements to help treat asthma. Vitamin B complex is probably the most important supplement to take. It is necessary for maintaining biochemical balance in the body and can reduce the frequency and severity of an asthma attack. Vitamins A and E worked together to protect lungs against air pollution. A large dose of vitamin C, preferably 500 mg three times daily, is effective in preventing exercise-induced asthma attacks. Gingko biloba enhances breathing and lessens sensitive bronchial reactivity. 400 mg of magnesium taken daily helps the lung muscles relax. Omega-3 can improve breathing, while selenium protects against free radical damage inside the lungs. Odorless garlic is a strong anti-inflammatory agent that can reduce the possibility of an attack. And Indian herb called tylophora asthmatica is frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine that blocks the release of histamines and other inflammatories. Licorice root taken three times a day also loosens phlegm once an attack has begun.

If you suspect that you have asthma, go to your physician and asked to be tested for food and environmental allergies as soon as possible. Avoid allergens known to trigger asthma attacks and eat a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fresh fruits. Try to avoid sugar, artificial sweeteners and other refined carbohydrates. Try to eat five or six small meals throughout the day rather than three traditional large meals. Make sure you warm up slowly before beginning all physical exercise. Minimize stress and avoid situations that trigger emotional disturbance. Use aspirin sparingly if you must. It would even be better if you would eliminate aspirin entirely from your regular medication because aspirin has been shown to trigger asthma attacks. Your physician will prescribe a bronchodilator that you can bring around in case you have a sudden asthma attack. If you don’t have it with you while you have an attack, drink two cups of coffee quickly. Coffee acts in the same way and usually provides enough protection for you to go to the nearest hospital for treatment.

Are those delicious foods that you just consumed making you feel sick and tired? You could be allergic or intolerant to certain foods and by understanding the warming signs, you can eliminate that food or additive before it becomes a complication, affecting your health. If you’re experiencing gas, bloating, indigestion or heartburn, these reactions are alerting you that your food choices need a modification.

Foods that are most often responsible for allergic reactions include milk, eggs, peanuts, strawberries, wheat, soy, fish and shellfish. When a food allergic reaction occurs, the immune system interprets this specific food as a threat, forming antibodies, which attaches to the allergen assisting in its removal. The immune system continues its defensive action as inflammation occurs in the intestinal tract lining, interrupting the absorption process of the conflicting food.

Another type of adverse food reaction is food intolerance. This occurs when something in a food irritates your digestive system and you’re unable to properly digest or breakdown the food. Some food intolerance is caused by enzyme deficiencies or a sensitivity, to synthetic chemicals which hinder the functioning of the digestive tract. People that are lactose intolerant do not produce enough of the digestive enzyme called lactase, which breaks down the milk sugar (lactose) found in dairy products. When too much undigested lactose makes its way into the large intestine, people suffer from gas and/or diarrhea.

The following Warming Signs, Indicators, Symptoms and Reactions can happen after you eat certain foods or additives that you’re allergic or intolerant of.

o abdominal pain

o anxiety

o bloating

o chest pain

o cramps

o dark circles or puffiness under the eyes

o depression

o diarrhea

o ear infections

o fatigue

o fluid retention

o gas

o headaches

o heartburn

o hives

o inflammation

o irritability

o nausea

o nervousness

o rash

o shortness of breath

o sinus congestion

o stomach pain

o swelling of the air passages

o vomiting

Our immune systems have become so over-worked from constant stress, exposure to air and water pollution, pesticides and chemicals found in our foods. Synthetic chemicals, like sulfites, that contain preservatives used in dried fruits, wines and many other processed foods are intolerant to many people. Synthetic food colorings are problematic for many people. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is an additive used to increase flavor and many people become bloated or experience severe headaches after eating. By eliminating additives, preservatives, chemicals, synthetics, pesticides, artificial flavors and colors, your immune system can function more effectively, protecting you.

Food allergies and intolerance can be hereditary. If your mom or dad can’t eat a certain food without difficulty, you might have the same reaction. Most food intolerance can be found through trial and error. Determine which food or foods cause the symptoms by keeping a food diary to record what you eat. People with food sensitivities must completely eliminate the offending food from their diet.

When you’re trying to identify problem foods, an elimination diet works well. This involves completely eliminating any suspect foods from your diet until you’re symptom-free. Then begin to reintroduce the foods, one at a time. This can help you determine which foods cause the reactions. Talk with your Healthcare provider before beginning an elimination diet to be sure your diet provides adequate nutrition. Stimulates and sweets are irritating to your digestion. Alcohol, caffeine and processed sugar, should be avoided.

You know your body better than anyone. When certain foods make you bloated, fart or you feel sick and tired, you don’t want to continue eating that food, no matter how good it taste. 50% of all Americans have adverse reactions to certain foods. The warning signs are alerting you to the incompatibilities. By eliminating the compromising foods or additives, your body will feel better and be able to digest and absorb the nutrients your cells need to stay healthy and strong. You’ll gain more energy and nothing looks better on you than a healthy body that feels so good.