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Changes in lifestyle, exposure to processed foods and prolonged use of gastric inhibitors could be related to the increase in allergies in the adult population, according to an expert.
Food allergies in adults are on the rise, and could be linked to factors such as stress, high consumption of processed foods, and long-term use of gastric acid inhibitors. This is how Dr. Olman Riggioni Corderospecialist in allergology and clinical immunology, during the second day of the National Medical Congress organized by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Costa Rica.
The specialist highlighted that, although food allergies have traditionally been associated with children, they are increasingly common in adults. Factors such as the use of artificial substances in food and poor food processing could be contributing to this phenomenon. Furthermore, advances in diagnostic studies have made it easier to identify these allergies, especially in foods such as milk, eggs, wheat, soy, shrimp and fish.
Common symptoms of food allergies:
- abdominal pain
- Constant distension
- Diarrhea and/or constipation
- Frequent headaches
Dr. Riggioni explained that the symptoms of a food allergy can range from mild to severe, significantly affecting quality of life. “A food allergy can lead to more serious health problems such as malnutrition, anemia, bone loss, low weight, severe fatigue syndrome, and difficulties socializing, traveling, or performing adequately at work.”, he warned.
The treatment of these allergies must begin with an accurate diagnosis and proper dietary management, strictly eliminating the offending foods. The specialist also recommended regular follow-up until the tests are negative and the food can be successfully reintroduced.
Recommendations for management and prevention
Dr. Riggioni stressed the importance of managing stress appropriately, as this can be a factor that aggravates allergies. He also suggested that patients taking antibiotics should complement treatment with probiotics to protect the intestinal microbiota, and in cases of abdominal surgeries, such as gallbladder removal, the use of digestive enzymes with bile salts is essential to support the long-term digestive process. term.
The specialist emphasized that breaking the cycle of allergies is crucial, since these tend to worsen if they are not properly controlled.
