Is Honey a Cure for Pollen Allergies?

Many purveyors of honey at local farmers markets highlight the allergy fighting benefits of honey.  The promise is that if you eat local honey for a few weeks before going to a new location you will build up a resistance to the allergens in the local air.  Is it true I don't know -- and I don't like honey.  But I thought it would be interesting to do a little research and see what others think. 

I was surprised to see that very little information existed on the allergy prevention benefits of local honey.  I found YouTube videos promoting everything from better digestion to better taste.  But very little on the allergy benefits of local honey.  One article from ABC News on the Go by Diane Sawyer Allergy Remedies -- Fact or Fiction? notes the idea of eating honey to prevent allergies doesn't work.  According to Neil Kao, an allergist and station head for the Allergic Disease and Asthma Center simply eating local honey picked up at a farmer's market is not going to help with your oak, ragweed or juniper tree allergy.  Kao said the pollen bees pick up from flowers is heavier than the grass or tree pollen that are the main causes of springtime allergy misery.

There is a limited study noted in the same article that people who are allergic to birch pollen who ate honey with birch pollen added were able to control their allergy symptoms more than those who used mainstream medicines.

I find this interesting and may have to find a way to give honey a try. Another thing I heard is that people who have oral allergies or are allergic to fruit are allergic to birch pollen.  In another posting I will investigate that and if honey can play a role in helping people with oral allergies.

Wikipedia

Wikipedia deleted by addition to the site.  I was very disappointed to see that my comments were not accepted.  Although I am not a medically trained professional I am very experienced living with food allergies and I know my stuff.  Below is what I added to Wikipedia.  It is not missing!

Allergies, however, do result in a weakened immune system making the allergy sufferer more susceptible to other infections and viruses.  Allergy reactions tax the immune system resulting in becoming more sensitive to other allergens, becoming more sensitive to pain and easily catching whatever cold or flu is currently running its course.  The best way to avoid additional symptoms and a weakened immune system is to avoid all contact with allergens including food sensitivities.

Gluten Intolerance and Lactose Intolerance are not Allergies

Gluten and Lactose can cause many people symptoms and problems that are similar to those of food allergies.  Food allergies are an immune system reaction that occurs soon after eating a certain food.  Intolerance of gluten and lactose is a less serious condition that does not involve the immune system. More information on the differences can be found at the mayo clinic website www.mayclinic.org/foodallergy.

Although technically not an allergy gluten intolerance can be painful and uncomfortable.  It can also lead to celiac disease.  Most people know that lactose intolerance is an intolerance to milk and milk products such as cheese and ice cream.  I did not know what gluten was or what happens if it causes you a problem.  Gluten, I learned is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley.  

I read a very good article about gluten intolerance by Katrina Plyer who found out she had celiac disease and was gluten intolerant. The article can be found at www.health.usnews.com/surprisingsignsof glutenintolerance.   She notes that many of the symptoms of gluten intolerance can mimic those of an allergy.  

Symptoms can include:

• Gastrointestinal effects
• Malabsorption of vitamins
• Skin rash
• Migraines
• Joint Pain
• Lactose Intolerance
• Chronic Fatigue
• Fibromyalgia

Gastrointestinal problems are common for food allergy sufferers as are skin rashes.  It is difficult to tell whether one is suffering from an allergy or an intolerance.  

The solution for both though is to avoid an foods that cause distress.  

Living with Allergies - An Interview

I spent a lot of time deciding who I should interview.  I wanted my interview to be helpful to people with allergies.  At first I thought I'd interview a medical professional but I decided it would be more helpful to speak with someone who had lived with allergies all their life. I chose a business associate who has extensive food allergies.  I was interested in learning how she managed to be so successful with the health issues she constantly dealt with.  My interviewee is a successful Financial Advisor with over 25 years of experience. She is physically active even though she only has 25% lung capacity.  

I asked: How long have you had food allergies?

I have had food allergies since the day I was born.  My first allergy was to milk.  I had to eat soy formula.  As I got older I had very bad asthma and eczema.  I was tested for food allergies.  From both blood tests and scratch tests it was determined I was allergic to eggs, potatoes, carrots and rye.  Needless to say my family got very sick of eating rice and I couldn't have french fries!

I asked:  Were there any treatments available at the time for your food allergies?

The first thing we did was to make sure I avoided all the foods I was allergic to.  After that I received four shots a week for my allergies.  I am not sure if the shots were for food allergies or for my other allergies but I had them every week for four years growing up.

I asked: Have your allergies stayed the same or have they changed over the years?

For many years I didn't have any food allergies at all.  I thought I had outgrown them.  Then about three years ago I ate a nut and had an anaphylactic reaction.  Then I ate some crab and had the same reaction.  So as of now I can eat eggs, carrots, rye and potatoes but have to avoid shellfish and nuts.  Right now it's just walnuts and crab but I am careful with all nuts and shellfish.

I asked:  How do you operate as a successful business person and manage your allergies?

When I was young there was no such thing as an Epi-Pen.  Every reaction was life threatening.  I am very careful about what I eat.  I carry an Epi-pen, benedryl and steroids with me at all times in case I experience anaphylaxis.

I asked:  Have you every had a life threatening allergic reaction?

When I was young I ended up in the hospital several times.  With these new allergies I have also had reactions.  One time I was at a business meeting and asked if there was shellfish in the soup.  The server told me no.  It turns out there was crab in the soup and I ended up in an ambulance being rushed to the hospital!  It was embarrassing to have that happen in front of all my business colleagues.  Another time I was at an airport and ate at the salad bar.  I got on the plane and as it was taking off I began to experience an anaphylactic reaction.  I immediately loaded myself up with benedryl and steroids.  Luckily that worked.  If the reaction had been any worse I might have had to ask them to land the plane!

I asked: What advice would you give to someone about managing their food allergies?

Most important is to take your food allergies seriously.  Every new reaction seems to be more severe so avoiding anything your allergic to is the key.  Not all restaurants train the staff to take allergies seriously so if something looks suspicious don't eat it!  It is also important to take the Epi-pen and medicine with you wherever you go.  It is impossible to tell when you will get a reaction.  Also, don't be embarrassed to ask how the food is made and what's in it. People without food allergies do not always understand how serious a reaction can be.  Finally, don't let your allergies hold you back from doing the things you want to do.  I have very bad asthma but it doesn't prevent me from riding my bike, kayaking and engaging in other activities I love.  Everyone has difficulties.  But they should not hold you back!

I found this interview very inspiring and I wanted to share it on my blog.  My interviewee is a very successful Financial Advisor who manages a large group of clients and needs to be well and available to help her clients make financial decisions.  In addition, she leads an active and productive life.  She is the mother of two children, owns two homes, skis, boats and bikes.  I am hoping my life works out as well!

Pesto without Nuts! Delicious

Since pesto is made with nuts I have never had the chance to try it.  I love herbs and pasta though so I was determined to find a way to enjoy pesto.  I found this recipe on Epicurious.com and tried it.  Its great!  I happen to love cilantro so the cilantro in the recipe works for me but many people are not fans of cilantro.  You can substitute parsley if you prefer the taste of that herb.  Or if you love arugula like I do you can use that or spinach.  You can substitute sunflower seeds if you're not a fan of pumpkins seeds.  Pesto needs the crunch of a seed or nut and some kind of green leafy herb or vegetable.  I sometimes add parmesan cheese as well.  And pesto is not just for pasta.  You can put it on sandwiches, chicken and fish.  Because I am allergic to eggs I also use it to replace mayonnaise on a sandwich.  It has tons of uses and is super delicious!

 

Pumpkin Seed Pesto

Makes about 21/2 cups                                  Active time 20 minutes

Ingredients

     

• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cups unsalted hulled (green) pumpkin seeds
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
• 4 scallions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, or to taste

Preparation

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large heavy skillet over moderate heat until hot but not smoking, then cook pumpkin seeds with salt and pepper to taste, stirring constantly, until seeds are puffed and beginning to pop (some will brown, but do not let all of them), about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Transfer to a plate and cool completely.
Pulse seed mixture in a food processor with water, cilantro, scallions, and remaining 4 tablespoons oil until mixture forms a coarse paste (not finely ground). Transfer to a bowl and stir in lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste.

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Pumpkin-Seed-Pesto-104569

Milk Allergies

Milk allergies are very common and can be difficult to detect.  Sometimes milk allergies and lactose intolerance are confused with each other.  If you have a milk allergy your immune system is compromised.  This is not the case with lactose intolerance.  If you suspect you have a milk allergy then it is important to get tested.  Testing can confirm a milk allergy.

Milk allergies can have some symptoms similar to lactose intolerance.
These symptoms include:

• bloating
• gas
• diarrhea

Milk allergies have other symptoms:

• Hives
• Wheezing
• Vomiting
• Loose stools, which may contain blood
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Coughing or wheezing
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Itchy skin rash, often around the mouth
• Colic, in babies

Milk is something that everyone drinks and is difficult to find a substitute for.  I am a big milk drinker.  I am glad it is not one of my food allergies.

How Anaphylaxis Happens.

How Anaphylaxis Happens

Better than the pictures I posted earlier this video shows you exactly how an anaphylactic reaction happens and what to do about it.  It shows how dangerous a reaction can be and also how important it is to make sure you have an epi-pen with you if you have allergies.   

If you have asthma or allergies carry your epi-pen, get yourself tested by a professional and know the signs of an allergic reaction.

Allergic to Fruits and Vegetables?

Who would think that delicious fruit or vegetables could cause anyone any trouble?

I listed numerous food allergies but found out about a new one -- one I do not have.  Allergies to some fruits and vegetables.  I was sitting with my cousin and found out she was allergic to pineapple and experienced something similar to anaphylaxis when she ate it.  I was surprised.  I had heard of oral allergies before from other members of my family.  The allergy was just a tickle in the throat once a raw piece of fruit or vegetable was eaten.  The less ripe the fruit or vegetable the stronger the reaction. I did some research and found a good article explaining the effect fruits and vegetables can have on someone who has an allergy.  Below is the link to the article.

    http://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2007/12/11/a-pesky-allergy-to-fruit-and-vegetables. 

Best Chocolate Cake Recipe

One of my favorite things to do is cook.  This recipe is a family favorite.  Although I have never eaten a cake made with eggs, friends and family find this cake to be even more delicious.  It is moist and tasty.  You can make this cake in two 8 inch pans as well for a double layer cake.

 

Eggless Chocolate Cake

Makes 1 - 9x13 inch cake pan         

Makes servings USMetricAdjust Recipe (Help)

• 4 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 3 cups white sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup vegetable oil

• 3 cups water
• 3 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons vanilla extract

  

                                                                   

ADVERTISE WITH US

ADVERTISEMENT

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan.
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, soda and salt. Add sugar and mix together.
3. Add oil, water and vanilla and mix thoroughly.
4. Pour into a 9x13 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 1 hour or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Yummy!  Rather than focusing on the negatives of allergies I am going to spend time helping you enjoy food.  Cooking can be fun and eating is even more fun!

Examples of Allergic Reactions

Anaphylaxis can look as bad as it feels.  Recognizing it is important because you have about five minutes before you can die.  I have talked about carrying an epi-pen because reaction time needs to be so short.

This image helps to explain anaphylaxis.



The following images from Google Image can be disturbing but show you how severe reactions manifest themselves.



And not to be gross but here it is



Anaphylaxis is often accompanied by swollen lips and eyes as well as hives.  Most important however is that your throat is closing.