Health Information Center

Food allergy is a rather fast response (minutes) by the body’s immune system to a perceived invader. Signs or symptoms are typically immediate, dramatic and visible: coughing, sneezing, vomiting, migraines, watering eyes, rashes, swelling tissue, hives – or in severe cases an anaphylactic shock which requires emergency intervention. However other symptoms like the gastro-intestinal responses nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can be delayed for hours or even days.

An Allergy triggers an allergic response in a person – often immediately – on exposure to the allergen. Generally, people suffering from an allergy have had a breakdown in their immune system: it “misreads” the allergen as an enemy invader and pulls out all stops to attack it. Continue reading ‘Food Allergy or Intolerance – What is the Difference?’ »

Food allergy is a rather fast response (minutes) by the body’s immune system to a perceived invader. Signs or symptoms are typically immediate, dramatic and visible: coughing, sneezing, vomiting, migraines, watering eyes, rashes, swelling tissue, hives – or in severe cases an anaphylactic shock which requires emergency intervention. However other symptoms like the gastro-intestinal responses nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can be delayed for hours or even days.

An Allergy triggers an allergic response in a person – often immediately – on exposure to the allergen. Generally, people suffering from an allergy have had a breakdown in their immune system: it “misreads” the allergen as an enemy invader and pulls out all stops to attack it. Continue reading ‘Food Allergy & Food Intolerance – What is the Difference?’ »

Newly diagnosed celiac and wheat/gluten allergy patients often feel overwhelmed once the reality of their new lifestyle hits them. Patients are told to completely stay away from gluten and wheat in their diets, but are often left to guess how to proceed with such a restrictive diet and lifestyle.

Many health care providers do not offer information to fully educate their patients on the “how-to’s” of adapting to the new challenges and changes that come with diagnosis. Patients who truly want to become healthier and completely adapt to their new lifestyle must embark on a journey of self-education.

Self-education is an on-going process for patients, and leads to empowerment and self-confidence by gaining knowledge and understanding of their condition. With knowledge, patients can face Life and safely take part in the world around them. Quality of life is greatly enhanced when patients are feeling good and more confident. Self-education is a very powerful tool for newly diagnosed patients who suffer from celiac disease and wheat/gluten allergies. Continue reading ‘Principle of Self-Education For Wheat And Gluten-Free Patients’ »