Chapter 15: Discussion and Summary

[Rebecca]

Chapter 15: Lyme and Allergies

Discussion Questions:

1. Have you been diagnosed (or do you suspect) you have food allergies or sensitivities?

2. If so, what steps have you taken to improve your digestive health?

3. Have you discussed chemical sensitivities with your doctor?

Summary:

• Food allergies and sensitivities are extremely common for MSIDS patients and any patient with a chronic condition. Allergic reactions can be a contributing factor to underlying symptomatology.

• Allergies may present with two different types of antibodies IgE (hypersensitivity) and IgG (delayed hypersensitivity).

o IgE-related food allergies cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe; it can be life threatening. Ex. Peanuts, shellfish. When an IgE antibody combines with an allergen it causes the release of histamine and cytokines. Inside the gastrointestinal track this process can increase intestinal permeability and allow allergens to move into the blood stream causing widespread inflammation that leads to anaphylaxis and shock.

o An IgG reaction, which is much more common, happens between 24-48 hours after ingesting an allergen.

o IgG symptoms include; arthritis, bed-wetting, bladder pain, constipation, eczema, fatigue, headaches, indigestion and reflux, low blood pressure, mood swings, respiratory symptoms, and stomach upset with abdominal pain.

o Because IgG reactions cause more inflammation, a MSIDS patient should be on an anti-inflammatory diet (remove wheat, dairy, and sugar) and avoid food allergens from testing. Some patients will also need to avoid nightshades, grains, artificial food dyes, flavorings and preservatives.

• Testing for food allergies can range from conventional skin testing to blood work for both IgG and IgE reactions, a CDSA digestive stool analysis, and intestinal permeability tests.

• The only effective treatment for food allergies and sensitivities is avoidance.

o You can remove foods for 3 months to allow the damaged intestinal mucosa to heal, re-balance microbial flora, and reestablish proper digestions.

o Probiotics are recommended along with GI nutritional products.

o After three months, using a rotation diet approach, foods may be reintroduced every three days. It is important to keep a journal to identify ongoing issues.

o Dr. H recommends the anti-inflammatory Mediterranean diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats and low in simple carbohydrates. Others may benefit from a Candida diet, or ketogenics approach.