Underlying Causes of Disease

Food Allergies

The prevalence of food allergies and the number of individuals with associated symptoms has increased dramatically in recent years. People are not always aware that the foods they consume may play a significant role in their physical conditions. Some physicians believe that food allergies are the leading cause of "undiagnosed" illness and that sixty percent or more of Americans suffer from the negative reactions to specific foods. The term food allergy can cause confusion because an allergic reaction is traditionally thought of as an immune-mediated reaction to a particular substance (antigen) resulting in symptoms such as hives, itching, swelling and sneezing. These reactions tend to be immediate and severe and are mediated by a specific type of antibody called IgE.

Common Conditions that may be associated with Food Allergies
  • Headaches
  • Muscle Pains
  • Chronic Infections: cold, flu, ear,etc.
  • Arthritis
  • Tinnitus
  • Chronic Fatigue/ Fibromyalgia
  • High Blood Pressure
  • Sleep Disturbances
  • Irregular Heart Beat
  • Seizure Disorders
  • Asthma/ Chronic Bronchitis
  • Memory Difficulties
  • PMS
  • ADD & ADHD
  • Fibrocystic Breasts
  • Behavioral Problems
  • Constipation/ Diarrhea
  • Depression and Anxiety
  • GI Disturbances
  • Speech Problems
  • Irritable Bowel
  • Ezcema, Acne, Psoriasis
Although food allergies can occasionally present in a manner similar to the "classic allergy" with hives, itching and swelling, the majority of food-based allergy are more subtle in their onset and are often delayed up to several days after ingestion. This delayed type of food allergy is mediated by another antibody named IgG. IgG mediated food sensitivities can identified through blood work or through a hypo-allergenic elimination diet. Physical or emotional trauma, conventional medications, surgery, immunizations, environmental toxins, improper digestion, excessive consumption of highly allergenic foods, early weaning with the introduction of cow's milk and solid foods to infants at an young age and the high level of preservatives, artificial colors, sweeteners and flavorings now added to foods are all factors that can lead to the development and exacerbation of food allergies. Our doctors at the Natural Health and Acupuncture Clinic work closely with you to identify and correct imbalances caused by food allergies using a combination of dietary intervention and natural therapeutics.