Vitamin C: The Food Allergy Treatment

Many people have allergic reactions to the foods they eat. Extra amounts of Vitamin C can be used as a food allergy treatment. This is because allergies are helped by taking this essential nutrient. It not only relieves the symptoms, but it prevents inflammation and boosts the immune system. When someone experiences these problems, it can be a sign that they are deficient in this antioxidant.

Vitamin C not only works as a food allergy treatment, it also improves other allergies such as contact dermatitis, hay fever and asthma. This is because it is a natural anti-histamine. According to Jacqueline Krohn, M.D., people with allergic reactions should take this nutrient every day. She suggests that a person have as much as their body can handle. It is safe to consume, even in high doses. The only caution would be to drink a lot of water because kidney stones can form when too much is consumed.  An individual will know when they have had enough because they will experience diarrhea. When this happens, reduce the amount until the side effects go away. Start out by ingesting 1,000 milligrams a day with a meal. The amount can be increased by taking 1,000 more milligrams daily at different meal times. Rotating the time of the day when it is eaten is suggested because this vitamin is eliminated by the body at a fast rate. When side effects occur, reduce the amount by 1,000 milligrams. That will indicate the proper level to take. It will vary from person to person.

When purchasing a supplement of Vitamin C for food allergy treatment, read the label to make sure that they are hypoallergenic. Time-release or chewable forms should be avoided. The chewable types often contain allergenic substances. There may not be enough stomach acid to help with digestion when taking the time release form. Any ascorbic acid or ascorbate forms are okay to take. Some people may find that they experience some bladder irritation or stomach discomfort. If this is the case, try a different brand or form of ascorbate.  Absorption can be decreased by taking aspirin, barbiturates, tobacco, mineral oil, salicylates, oral contraceptives, tetracycline and sulfa drugs.

Many nutritionists believe the best way to get enough Vitamin C for food allergy treatment, is to consume a lot of fruits and vegetables high in this nutrient.  Some good sources are red berries, kiwi, tomatoes, spinach, red and green bell peppers, broccoli and juices made from orange, grapefruit, and guava. Of course, one must make sure that these foods are not the ones causing any food allergies.  Until that is determined, a supplement is a safe way to go.