A recent snow flurry brought joking comments about those who
will empty the grocery store shelves of bread and milk. It is one of those things that people in the
South say when it snows. It never fails
that any threat of winter weather produces casein and gluten shoppers. Of course it is rare that any winter weather
stays more than a day or two.
Some consider such behavior as odd. After all, is it really that important since
the roads will be clear tomorrow? Perhaps there is more to the compulsion to shop
at the very hint of weather restricted access. It only makes sense if you look
at it as a real food addiction.
As it turns out, the protein casein (link)found in dairy products
and the gluten found in wheat can actually turn into weak morphine like proteins.
These react with opiate receptors in the brain. The conversion of these type of proteins will vary from one
person to the next.
In my experience, the most common visual symptom of a gluten
or wheat intolerance is fluid retention and inflammation. The most common symptom of a dairy allergy is
chronic sinus congestion. Both of these
can be accompanied by poor sleep. An
"O" blood type can have both allergies. An "A" blood type is more prone to dairy
intolerance.
Individuals with a gluten or dairy allergy will consume
their addictive food on a daily basis.
They also consume that type of food disproportionately compared with the
other foods in their diet. The most common
response to the suggestion that one eliminates gluten from their diet along
with the deer in the headlights look is:
"What else can I eat?"
It truly escapes them that fruits, vegetables, and meat are
possibilities.
If you suspect a food allergy try a modified elimination
diet. Stop eating that food (wheat or
dairy) for 21 days. On day 22, eat all
you wish and stop again. Notice any
symptoms from day 22 to 24. You may
experience anything from a mild runny nose to full blown gastrointestinal
upset.
A food allergy has far reaching effects that include
indigestion, inflammation, and hormone imbalance. Hormone imbalance includes adrenal problems that impacts energy
and sleep. Thyroid hormone can be
suppressed increasing weight. Sex
hormones, including estrogen and testosterone can also be suppressed. Identifying your food allergy can be the
most powerful wellness change you can make.
Stay Well!
