Allergies: Recognising causes, preventing and treating effectively
Allergies have long since become a widespread disease, affecting millions of people worldwide. In Germany and Austria, too, almost one in three people will struggle with an allergic condition at some point in their lives.
How do allergies develop, what new scientific findings are there, and what can you do to alleviate symptoms or prevent an allergy? In this article, we take a comprehensive look at this health challenge.
What is an allergy?
An allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to normally harmless substances, known as allergens. These can be found in the environment, for example in pollen, animal hair or dust mites, or in foods such as peanuts, milk or eggs. In allergy sufferers, the immune system mistakenly classifies these substances as dangerous and triggers an immune response that causes reactions such as sneezing, skin rashes or breathing difficulties.
Why are allergies on the rise?
In recent decades, the number of allergy sufferers worldwide has increased. Scientists have developed several theories as to why allergies are becoming more common:
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The hygiene hypothesis
This theory suggests that our modern lifestyle, which is characterised by high standards of hygiene, no longer provides sufficient training for the immune system. Children who grow up in sterile environments are therefore more likely to develop allergies. Interestingly, recent studies show that a healthy and diverse microbiome – i.e. the totality of microorganisms in the gut – plays a key role in regulating the immune system. Children who grow up with pets or live in rural areas where they come into contact with microbes more frequently have a lower risk of allergies. -
Environmental factors and climate change
Air pollution, the increase in pollen due to longer flowering seasons and rising temperatures are contributing to the increase in allergic diseases. Climate change is not only leading to longer pollen seasons, but also to higher allergen exposure, especially from grass and birch pollen. These changes can increase the severity of hay fever and asthma. -
Early exposure to allergens
The latest findings refute the assumption that exposure to potential allergens should be avoided in childhood. Experts now recommend offering babies small amounts of allergens in the form of peanuts or eggs during their first year of life. This step can reduce the risk of food allergies and strengthen the immune system. -
Changes in diet and the microbiome
Our diet influences the microbiome. An unbalanced diet that is low in fibre and high in industrially processed foods can reduce the diversity of the intestinal flora and increase the risk of allergies. Studies show that a healthy microbiome is promoted not only by diet, but also by contact with a variety of microbes, which in turn can reduce the risk of allergies.
In summary, these factors show how modern lifestyles, environmental changes and diet strongly influence the immune system and contribute to the increase in allergies.
Modern diagnostic and treatment methods
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Molecular allergy diagnostics
This method allows doctors to identify specific protein molecules that trigger the allergic reaction. This makes it possible to refine the diagnosis and target treatment more effectively. -
Allergen immunotherapy (AIT)
AIT, also known as hyposensitisation, is the only therapy that directly addresses the causes of an allergy. It involves exposing the immune system to increasing doses of the allergen over a longer period of time until it reacts more tolerantly to it. Studies show that the therapy not only alleviates symptoms but also reduces the risk of developing asthma. -
Biologics: a new source of hope
Biologics are a new class of drugs that specifically target the immune response. They have proven to be extremely effective, especially in severe forms of asthma and atopic dermatitis. -
ALLEOVITE IMMUN: support for the immune system
The ALLEOVITE IMMUN
supplement offers an innovative approach to strengthening the immune system in cases of allergies. These capsules contain a special combination of quail egg powder and calcium ascorbate, which are known for their positive effects on regulating the immune system.-
Quail egg powder
Quail eggs are traditionally valued for their hypoallergenic properties. Their nutrients can help calm the immune system and mitigate allergic reactions. -
Calcium ascorbate
As a pH-neutral form of vitamin C, calcium ascorbate supports the immune system and also has an antioxidant effect, which protects cells from oxidative stress – a common companion to allergies.
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Quail egg powder
Regular intake of ALLEOVITE IMMUN can help strengthen the immune system and improve the quality of life for allergy sufferers in the long term.
Coping with allergies in everyday life
If you live with an allergy, specific measures can make your everyday life easier:
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Pollen allergy
Install pollen screens, wash your hair before going to bed and avoid outdoor activities during high pollen counts. -
House dust mites
Use mite-proof duvet covers, wash bed linen regularly at a minimum of 60 degrees and reduce the amount of carpets and fabric furniture in your living space. -
Food allergies
Read labels carefully to avoid hidden allergens and inform friends and family about your allergy.
Allergies are a complex and multifaceted condition that continues to increase in prevalence. Thanks to modern research, we understand the causes and mechanisms better than ever before. Advances in diagnostics and new therapies bring hope to those affected. With products such as ALLEOVITE IMMUN, which offers a unique combination of quail egg powder and calcium ascorbate, you can actively support your immune system.