Signs of food allergy

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Extract from the article: Food allergy is a set of abnormal immune reactions following the ingestion of a food. Eggs, different types of nuts, fish and seafood are among the foods most likely to cause allergy attacks.

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Food allergy is a set of abnormal immune reactions following the ingestion of a food. Eggs, different types of nuts, fish and seafood are among the foods most likely to cause allergy attacks.

Allergy symptoms

They range from eczema to asthma and digestive problems. In some cases, more severe reactions can occur, such as oedema or anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal. These allergies are a real burden for the individual concerned, but also for those around them, who have to be extremely vigilant at all times.

A link with the environment and lifestyles

It's still too early to say why the number of allergies is increasing, but there are many theories about how to combat this phenomenon. The increase in allergies depends on what people eat and where they live. Improved diagnosis and increased awareness are not the only reasons for the rise in allergies. Allergies and sensitivity to certain foods are « probably linked to environmental causes and Western lifestyles ». Pollution, changes in diet and reduced exposure to microbes all modify the immune system's response.

What are the solutions?

While the environment may play a role, it is not the only factor. Among the theories put forward, too marked an improvement in lifestyle means that children no longer contract as many infections and therefore do not develop sufficient immune defences. The lack of vitamin D in young children is also highlighted.Vitamin D strengthens the immune system, making children less susceptible to allergies.Yet most children are deficient. Another method of prevention is to pay close attention to food diversification. The development of allergies is delayed or even eliminated, because the intestinal immune system is ready.

Elom AKAKPO