Page 19 - The Autoimmune Protocol

The Autoimmune Protocol

are abrasive to the skin and can cause a rash. Additionally, synthetic dyes in various
substances can trigger a reaction.

Allergies are a very common, and disturbingly increasing, condition. Although many
allergies have no known cures, understanding how the body responds to triggers can help
you better understand how to manage symptoms and avoid possible reactions. There are
natural ways you can help block the production of histamine in the body to help treat the
symptoms of allergies. Some of these include consumption of local, raw honey and/or
propolis, plants like stinging nettle, purple deadnettle, and butterbur. If you suffer from
seasonal allergies, try drinking several cups daily of tea infused with the plants listed
above. If you suffer from food allergies, allergies that typically result in anaphylaxis, or
asthma, make sure you always have access to medications that can save your life. If you
deal with contact dermatitis, try avoiding common allergic triggers and opt for more
natural-sourced cleaners, detergents, soaps, and cosmetics. For those who deal with
chronic inflammation of the skin and mucus membranes due to allergies, try taking
supplements that help curb inflammation in the body, such as turmeric or ginger.

Celiac Disease

An increasingly common autoimmune disease is celiac disease. This disease is
characterized by gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea, bloating, malabsorption, and
loss of appetite. All of these symptoms are the body’s way of overreacting to a common
substance found in many foods. This substance is called gluten. Gluten is a group of
proteins found in grains like wheat, rye, and barley.

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