Vitamin D Deficiency and Food Allergy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Multiple studies have pointed out that the prevalence of food allergy is increasing day by day, which has now reached epidemic levels in Western countries like Australia and the United States. It is estimated that up to 10% of 12-month-old infants have a clinically confirmed food allergy. As food allergies have increased, vitamin D levels in the population appear to have concurrently decreased. Up to 50% of people in Western countries are vitamin D insufficient, and up to 10% are vitamin D deficient.
While there is some evidence to show that those with Vitamin D deficiency and poor exposure to sunlight are more prone to food allergies, further studies are needed to establish that link conclusively. Experts suggest that food allergies are very individual and are a result of immune dysregulation.
Some common symptoms of food allergy induced by Vitamin D deficiency are skin reactions like hives, rashes, and eczema, wheezing, difficulty breathing, runny nose, angiogenic eyes, uneasiness in the stomach, nausea, pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Food allergies may also trigger migraines and spells of dizziness.
Here are 3 ways to boost your Vitamin levels:
1. Supplements: Oral supplements are available in any pharmacy and can help boost the Vitamin levels in the body. However, supplements should not be the only solution that people follow to balance vitamin levels in the body.
2. Food: The first solution to vitamin D deficiency would be to fix the diet. There are many fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin D that can help boost the levels in our body. These include egg yolk, fatty fish, fortified milk, fortified cereals, yoghurt, beef liver and juices.
3. Sun Exposure: The most natural way to get a Vitamin boost is through natural sunshine. Spend some time in the morning and evening sun, and make sure to protect your skin with sunscreen lotion.
By following these tips and consulting with a healthcare professional, you can effectively manage the symptoms of food allergy induced by Vitamin D deficiency. Don’t let food allergies hold you back from living your best life. Start taking care of your health today!