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What are allergies? The body's immune system is programmed to recognise and destroy foreign substances, such as bacteria, viruses and parasites which infiltrate our bodies in order to prevent potential damage to our cells and tissues. However, there are times when the immune system overreacts to substances, which are not necessarily a threat to our wellbeing. These substances are usually referred to as antigens, or allergens, and can include such things as specific foods, pollens, pollutants, dust, moulds, plants or drugs. How to minimise allergic reactions? Since an "over-reactive" immune system initiates the allergic symptoms, here are some important steps you can take to care for your immune system. 1. As much as possible, avoid the following foods. They might overload your body with mucus increasing your alelrgic symptoms: -butter or cream sauces -monosodium glutamate (MSG) and food colourings -cold cuts (ham, bacon, wieners, etc) -foods fried in oil, butter or margarines -dairy products (cow or goat); milk, yogourt, cream, ice cream, cheese -alcoholic beverage (wine, beer, hard liquor) -bananas -gluten starches including oats (oatmeal, granola cereal and bars, etc) -nuts (cashew, brazil nuts, pecan, walnuts, peanuts, etc) -refined sugars 2. Pay attention to your digestion. You are less likely to react to foods you have digested properly. Chew, relax, and don't eat on the run. 3. When possible, do not over-stress your immune system by constantly challenging it with the allergen. Give your immune system a rest. 4. Ensure adequate amounts of Vitamin C to calm the immune cells. 5. A general internal cleansing treatment such as Rasayana DX Program from A. Vogel could be beneficial to avoid overloading your body with mucus. 6. Avoid junk food and too much coffee or caffeinated drinks. 7. Stop smoking... in fact, ban smoking from your house! 8. Get enough sleep- this reenergize your immune system. 9. Regular exercise with suffcient time for rest and relaxation. NOTE: -Avoid all known allergens during pregnancy and during an infants's early stages to minimise the risk of your child developing the same allergies. -Some allergic reactions, such as anaphylactic shock, are life-threatening and in those circumstances the only option is to avoid the allergen all together and consult a healthcare professional. *(exerpts taken from Allergies- Total Health System - product information brochure) A. Vogel www.bioforce.com