When an allergic reaction occurs the immune system responds. Most people are very aware of environmental allergies, like ragweed, causing symptoms such as runny noses and sneezing. Food allergies caused by an immediate immune response can cause anaphylaxis or tightening of the airways. We commonly hear about this with foods such as peanuts or other nuts. Did you know there is another category of immune reaction known as a delayed immune response. These reactions can occur over several hours to several days. These are the most common food reactions. We call these delayed immune reactions to food, food sensitivities. Food sensitivities can cause many different symptoms and health problems.
\nFor example, if these immune complexes deposit in blood vessels they can cause headaches. If they deposit in joints they can cause joint pain. Other very common complaints associated with food sensitivities are asthma, eczema, chronic sinusitis and digestive disturbances. Sometimes it is very difficult to pinpoint which foods are the culprits and in some cases it is a number of foods together which cause you to exceed your threshold.
\nI have had a number of patients resolve chronic migraines, eczema and digestive problems by simply figuring out what they were reacting to.<\/p>\n
Generally the top 5 food sensitivities are:<\/p>\n