Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Some of the signs and symptoms of Food allergies and Sensitivities are:

• In the GI system: Canker sores, celiac disease, chronic diarrhea, duo-denal ulcer, gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and colitis.
• In the Gentio-Urinary system: Bed-wetting, chronic urinary tract infections
• In the Immune system: Chronic ear, sinus and lung infections
• In the Mental/Emotional system: Anxiety, depression, hyperactivity, insomnia, trouble concentrating/ brain fog, and seizures.
• In the Respiratory system: Asthma, chronic bronchitis, wheezing and hay fever.
• On the Skin: Acne, eczema, hives, itching, skin rashes.
• Musculoskeletal: Bursitis, joint pain, arthritis, low back pain
• Misc: Headaches/Migraines, edema, fainting.

It is important to know the difference between food allergies and sensitivities.

• True food allergies are mediated by IgE and involve the release of histamine.  They cause immediate reactions upon exposure to the food, or even exposure to the food antigen in the air.  Symptoms include hive reactions, itching, throat closing up and difficulty breathing.
• Food sensitivities are produced by IgG, also a part of the immune system.  IgG reactions are slower, often referred to as a delayed-reaction.  IgG remains in the system much longer and therefore can have symptoms for days after the food is ingested.  This can make it difficult for the patient to identify the food sensitivities on their own.

At Vitalia, many of our patients have changed their lives significantly and benefited from knowing their food sensitivities.  It can be enlightening to know how the food you eat is affecting you!