Over 30 million people in the United States suffer at some time from known allergies, ranging from mild to severe. Allergies are one of the most prevalent causes of illness in the Unites States. The number of substances to which people are exposed to has gone up dramatically in the last few decades. Some of the foods we consume all the time are foreign to us, at least in terms of our genetic backgrounds. For example, soy and corn were not eaten in Europe where the majority of Americans have their genetic roots.
Intolerances can affect any organ system of the body.
They may include rhinitis, breathing problems, digestive problems, itching skin, hives, eczema, rash, headaches, insomnia, hyperirritability, anxiety, depression, and concentration problems. With food intolerances it is important to remember that not only must the foods be avoided, but emphasis must be placed on building health using therapies which aid the immune system. The combination of genetics, timing, and exposure clearly influences the development of an overly sensitive immune system. If your mother smoked while she was pregnant you have 4 times the risk of anyone else for developing an allergy-whether or not you also have a family history of allergy. The time immediately after birth and weaning seems to be when the human organism is particularly susceptible to exposure and development of sensitivities.