There are many answers to the question of why so many people today are affected by (food) allergies, as the reasons can be very diverse. With a balanced gut flora, allergies can already be prevented or their symptoms alleviated in early childhood (and also in adulthood).
But first to the basic question: What is an allergy?
Many people do not know that around 80% of our immune cells are located in the gastrointestinal tract. When you then consider the definition of an allergy, it quickly becomes clear that there must be a deeper connection here: “An allergy is an acquired, immunologically caused, specific hypersensitivity to foreign substances” (Center for Allergology, 2012).
...and how is our gut connected to allergies (or intolerances)?
Many medical studies try to explain how certain bacterial strains—or the absence of these—are related to allergies. The composition of the gut flora (type, diversity, and quantity of microbes) affects how strongly the body reacts, for example, in food allergies. Research and medical practice have shown that targeted promotion of certain bacterial strains can reduce allergic reactions as well as the tendency to infections. Current research assumes that allergies develop early in childhood and are most likely genetically predisposed. Although a complete ‘cure’ is currently not possible for most forms, symptoms can often be alleviated through probiotics.
What is the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?
An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a harmless foreign substance (for example, peanuts). In the case of a food intolerance (also called intolerance), the immune system is not active. Intolerances usually arise because the body does not have enough of a certain enzyme or transport molecule to break down or absorb certain food components, such as lactose, fructose, or histamine.
How can I rekindle my body's natural healing powers?
There are many ways to support your body to help you regain optimal well-being. One of these is the intake of live microorganisms through fermented foods or dietary supplements. Because a loss or fundamental lack of certain probiotic bacterial species has been proven to promote the development of allergies. Therefore, rebuilding and maintaining a healthy gut flora in the long term is especially important for those suffering from allergies.
