Does Your Child Suffer From Allergies?

Does your child suffer from any of the following?

• Digestive issues such as; colic, constipation, diarrhoea,

• Food allergies/Intolerance

• Chronic ear infections, Constant Runny Nose

• Behavioural/Learning Difficulties

• ADD/ADHD

• Autism

• Eczema

• Hay fever

• Asthma

Any of these conditions may be a sign the integrity of the gut has been compromised. The gut wall is lined with a bacterial layer that provides protection against undigested food, toxins and parasites. If the balance of “good” bacteria is out of balance with “bad” bacteria it can lead to chronic inflammation and malnourishment. This sets up a chain of degenerative changes in the gut wall structure, compromising the immunity of the child. Good nutrition forms the basis of good health and without the ability to absorb minerals and nutrients efficiently, sickness and disease can occur. Determining the cause of the imbalance, repairing the gut lining and replenishing with good bacteria are the first steps in helping your child become well again.

What causes it?

Intolerances and allergies can occur after constant exposure to certain foods, (for example; gluten, dairy) leading to a damaged gut wall. A condition known as “leaky gut” is a common development in food allergies. This occurs when improperly digested food particles cross the compromised gut wall and stimulate the immune system to launch a reaction and produce antibodies against this particular food.

Testing for Food Allergies

In my clinic I recommend an IgG food allergy test. It tests for over 90 foods and can give you a definitive list of foods to avoid. Alternatively, an elimination diet can also be effective in identifying which foods your child reacts to. This method involves avoiding key allergens for about 2-3 weeks. The food is then reintroduced while watching out for symptom reappearance.

Treating Food Allergies

Usually a period of about 3 months is needed to heal the gut while building up the immune system. Avoidance of the allergy causing foods with supplementation of high quality probiotics and specific nutrients to repair the gut wall, restore gut health and improve digestion.