Allergy and Intolerances
Allergy and food intolerance testing
The food intolerance tests are carried out as part of a Nutritional Therapy consultation. We offer further tests by saliva, urine, stool or hair sample to assess nutritional status and allergic reactions.
Q. What are allergies.
A. Our body’s immune system is designed to correctly identify what is needed by the body and what is foreign to it. When it encounters something foreign, the immune system reacts by making certain anti-bodies or releasing certain chemicals such as histamines. Sometimes the body produces an inappropriate response, or “hyper response”. Then histamines and other chemicals are released into the system causing an inflammatory reaction.
Q. What causes allergies?
A. Allergies are caused by,
- Natural environmental substances such as mould spores, pollen, dust, animal fur etc. can create itching, redness, fluid, affect the eyes, nose, sinuses, throat, bronchial tubes and lungs.
- Foods such as wheat, milk etc. can affect the digestive tract, the nervous system, the respiratory system and the skin.
- Chemicals in the environment and additives weaken our immunity and allow further allergens to follow.
Q. How do allergens get into the body?
A. Allergens enter the body through,
The nose by inhalation of environmental allergens.
The mouth by ingestion of food and chemicals found in foods, water and certain medicines.
The skin by contact with allergenic substances.
Q. What is an intolerance?
A. A broader term to describe any unpleasant reaction to an offending substance. Histamines may not be produced but the body reacts unfavourably causing a multitude of symptons such as headaches, bowel problems, tiredness, aching joints and many more.