The homeopathic treatment of food allergies likewise begins with a very detailed history and a physical examination. Allergy tests are sometimes needed to clarify which foods may be involved but all of the patient’s symptoms are taken into consideration; this is the constitutional homeopathic approach. The goal is to cure the patient’s tendency to have this immune oversensitivity and this is possible over a period of 1-3 years. Avoidance of the offending foods is a key part of the treatment but as the condition improves, some foods can be gradually reintroduced into the diet. Almost 20% of adults report food allergies but when tested, only about half that number are positive by blood testing (RAST) or by skin prick test. Likewise, 11% of children are reported by their parents to have food allergies but only about 8% test positive. Most people believe that their immune systems are not strong enough and so take various supplements for “immune support” when in fact the opposite is true. Their immune systems are hypersensitive and overactive. There are two major immune mechanisms involved in allergies; one is immediate and the other takes several days for a reaction. Allergy symptoms are cause by a series of inflammatory compounds released by some immune cells. Some patients suffer from food sensitivities or intolerance such as lactose intolerance which is not a true allergy. Typical allergic symptoms are hoarseness, wheezing, hives, itching and vomiting. Severe and sudden reactions that cause tongue swelling and difficulty breathing are treated in an emergency room. For chronic allergy symptoms, the diagnosis is made by physical exam and a very detailed history of the foods consumed and the timing of the reaction. Food diaries are important as are blood tests, skin prick tests and food challenges when indicated. Some patients will test positive and not show any allergy symptoms and some patients will have allergy symptoms but not test positive. Allergy testing is only a guide to possible allergens; the patient’s history is the most important aspect of the diagnosis. The most common food allergies are cow’s milk, eggs, fish, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, soy and wheat. Conventional treatment involves avoidance of the offending food, and when indicated epinephrine (EpiPen), antihistamines, inhalers and sometimes steroids. There is no conventional cure for food allergies and allergy shots are typically not used by conventional allergists.