An allergy is an inappropriate response of the immune system to a substance that is not normally harmful to the body. Food allergy occurs when the immune system is inappropriately triggered by a food. Food intolerance results when there is a shortage of digestive enzymes and undigested food particles enter the bloodstream causing a reaction similar to food allergies.
There are a number of hypotheses as to why the occurrence of allergic reactions appears to be increasing. Some researchers suggest it is due to excessive regular consumption of a limited number of foods and/or the high level of synthetic and artificial additives we are exposed to. Other clinicians believe it is increased chemical pollution in the air and water supply that are to blame. Others promote the concept that our increasingly indoor lives with double-glazing, central heating and close proximity to pets could be at least partly responsible.
The truth likely lies in a combination of all three. Additional factors appear to be early weaning (early exposure to potential allergens such as cow's milk and wheat) or the exposure to newly-created GM elements in food.
Proper digestion is essential in eliminating food allergic response
The role of digestion in allergies, autoimmune and inflammatory diseases cannot be overstated. It is well known that molecular fragments of ingested food, primarily protein fragments, recycle through the intestinal membrane, and over time can trigger a series of immune reactions that may first give rise to allergies and later to severe inflammatory autoimmune disorders. In these cases, digestive enzyme supplements and probiotics can be valid therapeutic aids.
It has been shown that enzyme therapy is effective for preventing the formation of the Circulating immune complexes that cause the chronic intestinal inflammation typical of severe pcthologies such as colitis, Crohn's disease and rheumatoid artritis. Harmful bacteria or yeast/fungi in the gut can also be responsible for damaging the integrity of the intestinal wall and it is interesting to note that many allergies do arise after a bout of food poisoning.
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vitalSHAPE is a combined enzymes and probiotic formula, designed to improve the health of the GI system. It will help eliminate digestive and food intolerance problems and is especially valuable for anyone suffering with lactose intolerance.
