Gastropod Why Does Everyone Have Food Allergies These Days?
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Jun 25, 2024 Discover the escalating rates of food allergies globally, from adults to pets. Unravel the mysteries of why our bodies react to essential foods, the differences between allergies and intolerances, and the historical roots of allergic responses. Dive into the genetic and environmental influences on food allergies, explore rising trends and potential solutions, and learn about managing the complexities of allergic reactions.
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A Crash Course in Allergies
- Teresa McPhail's father tragically died from an anaphylactic reaction to a bee sting.
- This personal experience sparked her interest in understanding allergies.
Allergy Mechanism
- Allergies are a misguided immune response where the body attacks harmless substances.
- T helper cells misidentify allergens, triggering IgE antibodies and mast cells to release histamine.
Evolutionary Perspective on Allergies
- IgE antibodies, responsible for allergies, likely evolved to combat venomous creatures and parasites.
- This overreactive system sometimes causes anaphylaxis, potentially fatal when upright due to blood pressure drop.