HEALTH
38 March 11 - 24, 2022
Explore Big Sky
Your diet and your immune system BY DR. KALEY BURNS
Common causes of sensitivities and intolerances include: lactose, whey (dairy), glutencontaining grains, food coloring/dye, sugar and sugar alcohols, eggs and yeast.
One of the most powerful tools for a strong immune system is your diet. Nutrition can affect the microbiome (bacteria), intestinal barrier, inflammatory processes and white blood cell function, all of which impact the immune system. But what happens when our food is working against us?
If you’re unknowingly eating foods that you’re sensitive to, you may be exposed to chronic inflammation, which may be contributing to the symptoms outlined above. Identifying your unique food reaction profile can be difficult as these are delayed reactions and can take hours to days to present. For example, if you eat bread or drink milk on Monday, you may not have a reaction until Wednesday.
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Food sensitivities are usually caused by an imbalance in the gastrointestinal system that is affecting the immune system. Unfortunately, food sensitivities are largely undiagnosed. While they are less scary than a food allergy, these highly individualistic food reactions can still make us experience unpleasant and unwanted symptoms. Food reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to a food item that the body has mistaken as unfavorable. Fortunately, with growing awareness and food sensitivity testing capabilities, it’s easier to begin the process of identifying which foods may be connected to what you are experiencing. Identifying food sensitivities can be a game changer when it comes to health and wellness. Symptoms of food sensitivities differ from person to person and can depend on the type of food consumed. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, difficulty sleeping, mood swings, unintentional weight loss or gain, asthma, bloating, sinus problems, muscle or joint pain, indigestion, fatigue, hyperactivity, rashes and acne.
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This is where lab testing and elimination diets can be helpful. A simple blood test can be the key to unlocking improved immune function. A food sensitivity test is just what it sounds like: A blood test that can, through the use of biomarkers, help to determine which foods you may or may not be sensitive to. Learning about your body’s unique food reactivity could help you enjoy your nutrition more and choose optimal foods more effectively. Thankfully, food sensitivities are not forever. You may be able to regain oral tolerance to sensitive foods once you’ve eliminated them and given the gut a chance to heal and the immune system a chance to calm down. Dr. Kaley Burns is the founder, owner and Naturopathic Doctor at Big Sky Natural Health. She embraces a natural approach to health and aims to similarly inspire and guide others on their health journey. Dr. Burns has advanced training application of regenerative and intravenous injection therapy. She also serves as the Vice President and CE Liaison of the Montana Association of Naturopathic Physicians.
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