Chocolate Allergy

Chocolate Allergy By: David Cowley If you have an Chocolate Allergy then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Scientists do not clearly understand why the immune system of people allergic to chocolate considers some food proteins as harmful by the body. The immune system can mount a variety of defenses mechanisms against proteins that is considers as harmful or foreign. Symptoms can be very mild to life-threatening depending on the severity of your chocolate allergies. They usually occur within a few minutes to a few hours after eating or inhaling chocolate. True allergies to chocolate or cocoa are very rare. Other ingredients, additives or chemicals found in processed chocolate such as nuts, milk, gluten from wheat, soybeans, corn, syrup, caffeine, Theo-bromine, and Phenyl-ethylamine, cause most allergic reactions to chocolate. The higher the quality of chocolate the lower the chances of other additives being found in chocolate. Cocoa is made from the seeds of the cocoa tree that have been fermented, roasted and then ground up. The cocoa tree originated in Central America but is now grown in tropical climates around the world. The proteins found in chocolate trigger the immune system to reaction. Antibodies and histamines are releases into the blood stream in an attempt to neutralize the chocolate protein. These chemicals trigger the allergic symptoms. In sever cases Epinephrine, also call Adrenaline, is administered to control the anaphylaxis reaction. If you are unsure if you are allergic to chocolates then one of the tests you could be given is called Food Challenge Test. Avoid all chocolates for several weeks. The doctor will then give you pure chocolate without any of the other ingredients usually found in processed chocolate. This test needs to be given under close supervision by an allergist. If you are truly allergic to chocolate a violent reactions may occur and emergency medical attention may be needed. If symptoms appear within two hours after the taking the pill then you are allergic to it and will need to avoid it. Avoidance can be very difficult because cocoa is often hidden in other foods. Read the labels of every food that you bring into your home. Because the manufacturing processes change continuously re-read the labels each time you purchase a product. On January 1, 2006 a new law was passed stating that all labels should be designed in such a way that a 7-year-old child could read and understand the ingredients. Some of the health benefits of eating chocolate, in moderation of course, are reducing the risk of hart disease, increase longevity, increases libido and increased sexual fulfillment. Antioxidants are also found in chocolate and are believed to lower the amount of cholesterol in the blood stream. Just because it tastes good does not mean that it is bad for you so enjoy the occasional teat, you deserve it. Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Allergies such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Pantothenic Acid, Glucosamine, Antioxidants, Allergy Aid, and Quercitin. Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A. Up to one-third of older people can no longer absorb Vitamin B from their food. Vitamin B is needed to form red blood cells and keep nerves healthy. Vitamin C is nature's protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system. Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency. Vitamin E protects the lung tissue from inhaled pollutants and aids in the functioning of the immune system. Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Glucosamine is an anti-inflammatory and may give some relief from allergy symptoms. Substances called antioxidants can neutralize free radical by pairing up or binding with the free radical elections thus inhibiting them from damaging cells in the human body. Allergy Aid supplies 9 beneficial Herb's to help provide temporary relief of respiratory allergies. The natural action of these specific Herb's help to open bronchial tubes and ease breathing. Quercitin is a well known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing Chocolate Allergy symptoms. Always consult your doctor before using this information. This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

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Milk Allergy

If you have an Milk Allergy then you suffer from allergies Type 1 what is also called Contact Allergies. When milk products are consumed the immune systems treats the proteins found in milk as harmful or dangerous to the body and overreacts to the perceived invasion by producing antibodies to attack the proteins. Scientist are unsure as to why some proteins found in foods are consider harmful or dangerous by the immune system. What is known is that antibodies and histamine released into the blood stream during an allergic attack can cause wheezing, nausea, headaches stomach cramps, and hives. Like most type 1 allergic attacks the onset of symptoms usually occur within a couple of minutes to a couple of hours after eating something containing milk or milk byproducts. Lactose intolerance and being allergic to milk are often mistaken because some of the symptoms are the same for both conditions. Lactose intolerance involves the digestive system instead of the immune system. The digestive system in lactose intolerant individuals does not produce enough of the enzyme needed to break down the sugar found in milk thus producing symptoms similar to an allergic attack. Prior to seeing any allergy specialist for testing on milk allergies you will need to stop taking any anti-allergy medication or over the counter antihistamines 2 to 3 days before the test are to be performed. Talk to the allergy specialist if you are unsure about any medications that need to be stopped and for how long. The allergic to milk testing involves putting a liquid extract of the milk protein on your body, usually the back or forearm, and then scratching the skin slightly. If you develop hives, or red bumps, or the skin turns reddish in color and itches then these symptoms could indicate a positive result for allergies to milk. Avoidance can be very difficult because milk protein is often hidden in other foods. Milk, ice cream, and cheese obviously need to be avoided. Most baked goods such as breads and muffins use large qualities of milk in the baking process. Soy Cheeses may be milk free but they could contain milk protein and should be avoided. Other foods such as chocolate, processed meats may also contain milk or milk byproducts. Read the labels of every food item that you bring into your home. Because the manufacturing processes change continuously re-read the labels each time you purchase a product. Avoiding milk and other allergy causing ingredients was made easier after the new laws for manufacturing labeling went into effect on January 2006. All labels should be designed in such a way that a 7-year-old child could read and understand the ingredients. A growing awareness about food allergies is becoming well known in the United States. Food manufactures and restaurants are becoming more understanding and willing to accommodate people living with food allergies. Living with a Milk Allergy is no longer a major undertaking; it is now just a minor adjustment to your life-style. Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with treating the allergy symptoms such as Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Quercitin. Vitamin E accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system. Vitamin E can be taken internally or applied as a lotion to the affected areas of the skin. Aloe Vera will help rejuvenate and tone skin all over. A naturally cooling gel, the Aloe Vera botanical ingredients work together to stimulate the blood circulation and naturally soften the skin. Quercitin is a well-known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing allergy symptoms. Always consult your doctor before using this information. This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

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Dog Allergy

Dog Allergy

By: David Cowley

If you have Dog Allergy then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. You can be allergic to dander, saliva, or urine. Pet hair itself does not product allergic reactions in individual, but the dog dander that will stick to the dog hair will.



The allergy producing proteins called allergens are products in the dogs skin. When the dog licks themselves this sticky protein is deposited on the hair along with dead skin cells. When the dog hair comes into contact with dust, clothing, furniture, curtains, or you, the protein will stick to the surface of the object.



Allergy symptoms include nasal congestion, sneezing, itchy and water eyes, skin rashes, headaches, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.



All animals product allergens but just because you are allergic to dog allergens does not mean that you will be allergic to cat or bird allergens. If you are not allergic to dogs today is no guarantee that you will not develop allergies tomorrow. Many contact allergies develop over time. If you are susceptible to becoming allergic to dogs, then the more you are exposed to the allergens the more likely it is that you will develop symptoms.



If you are allergic to dogs then some precaution need to be taken to help control the allergy attacks.



Never allow dogs on the bed or even in the bedroom.



Use a HEPA room air cleaner in all bedrooms and in the family room. Air cleaners can make a really big difference in the severity and frequency of allergy attacks. The central heating system should have an electrostatic air filter to distribute clean air through out the house. These electrostatic air filters trap microscopic allergens.



Hard wood floors are easier to clean than carpets. If you do have carpets then invest in a quality vacuum. Most vacuums will blow the smaller particles of dust back into the air through the exhaust. You will need to get a vacuum that has some type of HEPA filter that traps microscopic particles of dust from being blown back into the air.



Leather furniture is easier to clean than cloth covered ones. Cover all cloth furniture with sheets to help prevent dog dander from being deposited on them and wash the sheets frequently. You may want to reserve a specific chair for yourself and not sharing your chair with your dog.



Wash your hands after petting or playing with your gods and avoid touching your eyes or face beforehand.



Allergy shots to hypo sensitize or build up an immunity to dog allergens will work on some people but not others. The reason is unknown and more research is needed for Dog Allergy problems.



M.S.M maintains the development of the body's protein by forming flexible disulfide bonds between certain amino acids and in maintaining the strength of connective tissue. This allows water and nutrients to flow freely into cells and allows toxins to flow freely out of the cells. M.S.M increases athletic stamina and helps eliminate muscle soreness. M.S.M is a natural supplement that is getting a lot of attention due to its role in tissue healing at the cellular level. It is a natural organic sulfur that comes from rain fall and is found naturally in the human body.


Always consult your doctor before using this information.


Article From Article Health And Fitness

Help I Am Allergic To The Birds And The Bees

Help I Am Allergic To The Birds And The Bees

By: David Cowley

If you are allergic to everything then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Allergies are abnormal reactions to normally harmless substances. The allergens can be inhaled, swallowed or come into contact with the skin.



Normally the human body learns to defend itself though experience. That is by attacking a foreign substance that has invaded and harming the body by producing antibodies. The best know of these antibodies are called histamines. Some times the immune system mistakenly recognizes a foreign to be harmful when it is not. This can lead to the overproduction of histamines specially designed to destroy the specific foreign substance.



Some of us can roll in poison ivy and come out without any problems, while others can merely brush up against a few leaves of the stuff and there are scratching for weeks. In most cases, allergies are more annoying that debilitating but to the extreme allergy suffers life can be pure misery or even death.



Foods, mold, animal dander, pollen, dust, bee stings, insect bites, and a host of other environmental factors can cause allergic reactions. If the birds and the bees and the flowers and the trees are giving you trouble then take a good look at your environment.



As a general rule, the environment that you live in plays a large part in the frequency and severity of your allergy attacks. If you suffer from air-borne allergies, such as pollen, then living in a tropical environment may be beneficial to you. An environment with a high humidity does not carry some type of air-borne contaminates well. Other people will do better in a dryer environment such as the desert. Less plants growing in the area then there are less pollens in the air and fewer biting insects.



The city environment will usually have less naturally occurring air-born contaminates and fewer biting insects where as the country environment will usually have less artificial air-born contaminates in the air but a higher concentration of biting insects.



If you suffer from allergies then take a hard look and what is giving you the problem and then take a serious look at what type of environment will beneficial to you. Try to spend several weeks in each type of environment and take note of the effects it has on you. Different people will react differently to each environment and only you can tell what would be best for you.



M.S.M maintains the development of the body's protein by forming flexible disulphide bonds between certain amino acids and in maintaining the strength of connective tissue. This allows water and nutrients to flow freely into cells and allows toxins to flow freely out of the cells. M.S.M increases athletic stamina and helps eliminate muscle soreness. M.S.M is a natural supplement that is getting a lot of attention due to its role in tissue healing at the cellular level. It is a natural organic sulfur that comes from rain fall and is found naturally in the human body.



Always consult your doctor before using this information.


Article From Article Health And Fitness

Bee Allergy

Bee Allergy

By: David Cowley

If you have Bee Allergy then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. The immune system produces antibodies and other disease fighting cells in response to the bee sting. The antibodies release chemicals that injure the surrounding cells.


In the Untied State the majority of stinging insect are from Bees, Yellow Jackets, Hornets, Wasps and Fire Ants. The degree of the allergic reaction varies widely but over 2 million Americans are allergic to stinging insects. If you are allergic to a specific insect bite or sting then the next encounter has a 60 percent chance of being as bad or worse than the previous encounter.


If you have only a slight itching or swelling at the bite or sting area then it is probably not an allergic reaction but considered a reaction to the chemical or venom produced by the insect. Localized treatment with ice and disinfectants are all that are usually needed. Multiple stings increase the risk of an allergic reaction.


Symptoms of Bee Allergy reactions can include an intense itching, rash, swelling, and difficulty in breathing or swallowing, hoarseness, dizziness, headache, and intense pain at the affected area. These allergic reactions usually occur with minutes but can be delayed for up to 24 hours. If any of the breathing symptoms occur or if the other symptoms are pronounced then prompt emergency treatment is needed.

Avoid walking barefoot as most insect bites or stings result from stepping on the insect. Bright color clothing, perfumes, fruit juices and eating fruit out of doors, hair tonics, suntan lotion, and floral odors all attract insects and should be avoided.

The subject of topical treatments for bee and wasp stings are highly conversional. I am of the opinion that applying some type of ointment or trying to neutralize the insect bite or sting with either vinegar or bicarbonate of soda will have only psychology helpful effects. If you believe that it helps then it will.

Wasp and bee venom is injected under the skin and after a few minutes it will spread into other tissue. Putting bicarbonate of soda onto the wasp sting to neutralize the alkali venom and putting vinegar on bee stings to neutralize the acidic venom is unlikely to be effective or even practically. But if it works for you then go for it.

Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with Allergies such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Pantothenic Acid, Glucosamine, Antioxidants, Allergy Aid, and Quercitin.

Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.

Up to one-third of older people can no longer absorb Vitamin B from their food. Vitamin B is needed to form red blood cells and keep nerves healthy.

Vitamin C is nature's protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system.

Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency.

Vitamin E protects the lung tissue from inhaled pollutants and aids in the functioning of the immune system.

Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats.

Glucosamine is an anti-inflammatory and may give some relief from allergy symptoms.

Substances called antioxidants can neutralize free radical by pairing up or binding with the free radical elections thus inhibiting them from damaging cells in the human body.

Allergy Aid supplies 9 beneficial Herb's to help provide temporary relief of respiratory allergies. The natural action of these specific Herb's help to open bronchial tubes and ease breathing.

Quercitin is a well known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing Bee Allergy symptoms.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.


Article From Article Health And Fitness

Cat Allergy

Cat Allergy

By: David Cowley

If you have Cat Allergy then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. If your skin comes into contact with cat dander or cat hair you immune system produces a violent reaction in an effort to eliminate something it considers harmful.


The main cause of cat allergy is caused by the allergens found in the cats skin. When the cat licks themselves, this sticky protein adheres to the cat hair. When the cat hair comes into contact with dust, clothing, furniture, curtains, or you, the protein will stick to the surface of the object. Even after the cat has been removed the allergens can remain for up to 4 years.


Cat allergen is so small that it can easily penetrate the bronchial membranes. It is about 10 times smaller than dust particles or pollen. Up to 1/3 of non-cat owners have the cat allergen on their clothing and in their home.


Male cats product more allergen that female cats and neutered cats product less that non-neutered and kittens product less allergens that adults animals do.


You need not have what you would consider a dirty house to suffer from dust and dander allergies. Some of the more common overlooked ideas for dust and dander management are as follows.


After you have vacuumed your carpets get down on your hands and knees, in a well lit room and slap the carpet with your hand. If you see dust rising into the air then you need a better vacuum cleaner. Most vacuums will blow the smaller particles of dust back into the air through the exhaust. You will need to get a vacuum that has some type of HEPA filter that traps microscopic particles of dust from being blown back into the air.


Ceiling fans not only trap dust and dander on top of the fan blades but will also stirs up any dust and dander in the area when turned on. Clean them weekly and if you must use them be sure to have a good HEPA type of Air Purifier in the area.


Run the vacuum over all curtains every week and wash them in the washing machine ever couple of months. You will also need to use a lint remover, the sticky tape type, to remove all of the cat hair stuck on the bottom of the curtains. If you have curtains that require dry cleaning, replace them because the chemicals used during the cleaning process can lead to problems with someone who has allergies or asthma.


Cats are known for being clean animals, yet I have never had another animal that sheds more hair than my cat. I believe those vile and evil creatures called dust bunnies live on cat hair. I have never had a larger infestation of dust bunnies as when I had a cat. They are sneaky little buggers and they multiply like - well like rabbits. Do all you dusting with a damp cloth. Using a dry cloth will only stir up the dust and dander into the air.


Most of us believe that are kitchen is the cleanest room in the house. My cat likes to sleep on top of the kitchen cabinets. When was the last time you cleaned on top of the kitchen cabinets? If you haven't cleaned up there in a while it will not be a pretty site.


Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with treating the allergy symptoms such as Vitamin E, Aloe Vera, and Quercitin.


Vitamin E accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system. Vitamin E can be taken internally or applied as a lotion to the affected areas of the skin.


Aloe Vera will help rejuvenate and tone skin all over. A naturally cooling gel, the Aloe Vera botanical ingredients work together to stimulate the blood circulation and naturally soften the skin.


Quercitin is a well-known flavonoid. Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation. Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing allergy symptoms.

As a last resort you could get a pet rock or hope for a vaccine to stop your Cat Allergy problems.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

Article From Article Health And Fitness

Alternative Acne Solutions Go High Tech

Alternative Acne Solutions Go High Tech

By: Trevor Mulholland

Acne vulgaris or the common acne afflicts majority of adolescents everywhere. The rise in hormonal activity at puberty signals the onset of changes to the underlying structures of the skin. Unfortunately, these pubescent transformations give rise to conditions that are conducive for acne. With acne as the leading dermatological concern of the youth as well as for a number of individuals who experience acne beyond their adolescent years, it is no wonder that acne solutions are quite in high demand.



Kinds of acne

There are several kinds of acne according to how severe the condition is. The first one is referred to as comedonal. This is characterised by the presence of non-inflamed blackheads or whiteheads. Blackheads occur on the surface of the skin whilst whiteheads are closed comedones that are under the skin's surface. They both refer to the blockage of the pores of the skin.



The next kind of acne is known as papulo-pustular or inflamed acne. This may be mild, moderate to severe inflammatory acne. Here, the skin is markedly raised and in the case where pustules are present, the pus-filled pimples are a clear indication of the nature of the bacterial infection.



Common acne treatments

The most popular mode of acne treatment comes as topical creams or ointments containing bactericides, antibiotics or retinoid compounds. Benzoyl peroxide is a well known active ingredient for many of the popular bactericidal anti-acne medications like Proactiv. It is known to be rather effective for comedonals as well as for mild to moderate inflammatory acnes. Azelaic acid and salicylic acid are also used as an ingredient in topical medication for non-inflammatory acne. Neutrogena as well as Clean and Clear act against acne with salicylic acid as their main ingredient.



Erythromycin and tetracyclines are broad spectrum antibiotics prescribed for mild to moderate papulo-pustular acne. Tretinoin and adapalene are the better known retinoids found in some acne solutions and cuts across most of the acne types except for severe inflammatory acne. Adapalene is the active ingredient in Differin.



The matter concerning severe inflammatory acne stems from its resistance to the other common methods applied for the other acne categories. One retinoid that stands out when it comes to severe acne is isotretinoine, the active ingredient in Accutane. Isotretinoine requires a prescription from a competent doctor as it may result in various side-effects.



High technology versus acne

For non-OTC options of fighting acne, one promising alternative is phototherapy. Here, the affected area of the skin is exposed to visible light, either violet or red. This short wavelength illumination seems to generate a reaction from the P. acnes bacteria wherein, over a matter of days of phototherapy treatment the bacteria ceases to survive. Consequently, the acne condition clears up with no known serious side-effects on the part of the patient.



Another high technology solution for acne conditions is through the use of lasers. Although laser treatments have been implemented long before to repair damaging acne scars, it was found to be beneficial for reducing and preventing acne in the long term. The object of laser based acne solutions is to burn away the follicles and sebaceous glands where the blockage and subsequent infection occurs. Ultimately, the acne causing bacteria is also killed in the laser process.


Article From Article Health And Fitness