How to Use Naturopathy to Treat Food Allergies

How to Use Naturopathy to Treat Food Allergies



Wheezing, cramping or nausea can plague those with food allergies. But these symptoms can supposedly be managed and your immune-system health restored with professional treatment and ongoing self-awareness and self-care. Naturopathy is a health system that many feel are well-suited to the task, with its mission to treat the cause of disorders by relying more on natural methods and less on drugs. A naturopathic physician can diagnose food allergies, isolate their origins and try to help you restore your equilibrium.







Things You'll Need:





Access to a naturopathic physician




Access to whole foods







Get Tested for Food Allergies




1


Confirm any suspicion that you have a food allergy by seeing an allergist or naturopathic physician. Let them know if food allergies run in your family or whether you have experienced symptoms such as hives or wheezing.





2


Have your doctor perform an ELISA. This is a food allergen assessment that many naturopaths use. It tests your antibody levels.





3


Continue to narrow down the cause of your allergy symptoms, if necessary, by following your doctor's directions on food removal and reintroduction into your diet.



Treat Your Allergies With Naturopathy




1


Consult a naturopathic practitioner to improve and maintain your health. Food allergies can produce long-term symptoms, such as asthma and intestinal or skin disorders, that may heal or need to be managed over time. Follow your doctor's advice on diet and lifestyle changes. He or she may prescribe moderately priced vitamins or nutritional supplements to use to counteract the damage caused by food allergies.





2


Avoid reactions to known food allergens by eliminating them from your diet. Be conscious of what you eat at home, and be sure to ask questions about ingredients when you eat out so you don't accidentally ingest a food you shouldn't have.





3


Continue to repair the damage done from your food allergies. Use organic vegetables, free-range meats and dairy products from naturally raised cows for optimum immune-system health. Buy a whole-foods cookbook to help you maintain your health.





4


Learn more about naturopathy and the various methods it uses to treat food allergies and other conditions at the naturopathy page of the National Women's Health Resource Center Web site (see Resources below).








Tips & Warnings










Awareness is key in managing food allergies. Read food labels and ask questions in restaurants to be sure to avoid trigger foods.








Some food allergies can cause severe reactions or even death. Seek emergency treatment immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction is making you feel warm or dizzy, or if you have violent sneezing or trouble breathing.








Before you start any alternative medical technique, be aware that many have not been scientifically evaluated. Often, only limited information is available about their safety and effectiveness. Each state and each discipline has its own rules about how alternative medicine practitioners can be professionally licensed. If you decide to visit one, choose one licensed by a recognized national organization. Consult your primary health care provider about your decision first. Keep your doctor informed about the alternative medical technique you undertake.



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