According to recent data, nearly the number of kids growing up with peanut allergies has risen by 21 percent over the last decade. Worse still, in many cases, the reactions are severe. Kids can sometimes struggle to breath.
But what’s causing this general growth in peanut allergies? Why are so many people now experiencing problems when such life-threatening diseases barely existed in the past?
Researchers believe that peanuts contain a chemical that sets off an uncontrolled reaction in the body. Over-vigilant immune systems view proteins contained in peanuts as a threat and then begin marshalling resources to fight them off. The body produces an enormous quantity of immunoglobulin E which then induces the release of chemicals elsewhere in the body, similar to how the body responds to disease. This then leads to all of the classic signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as inflammation around the throat and difficulty breathing.
But what causes this dysfunction in the first place? Unlike regular pathogens, peanut isn’t actually harmful in and of itself.
Lack Of Sunlight
One hypothesis is that people today are not getting sufficient sunlight.
Sunlight is necessary for the production of vitamin D. When solar radiation hits the skin, it sets off a chemical process that produces the hormone.
Studies suggest that a lack of vitamin D affects the development of the immune system. This, in turn, could be disrupting how it responds when it faces peanut proteins. It may not be able to develop fully.
Lack Of Developed Immune System
Related to this is the idea that some people’s immune systems are not going through the proper development. Usually, as kids get older, their immune systems develop rapidly as they learn to fight off new diseases. In many cases, they will have immune reactions to certain allergens which they then grow out of as their system matures.
However, sometimes, they can get stuck in an earlier state of development and never progress beyond it. Thus, every time they expose themselves to peanuts, the allergy returns, often requiring urgent care.
Genetics
Heredity and genetics may also play a role in explaining why more people are becoming allergic to peanuts. Research shows that people who are allergic to peanuts themselves are also more likely to raise children with the same condition.
Other Allergies
Lastly, those with other allergies, such as hay fever, are more likely to develop peanut allergies. Sometimes, allergies will develop slowly, while other times, they come on more rapidly.
Most people assume that there is no cure for peanut allergy. The only treatment is to avoid peanuts altogether (which is incredibly difficult to do).
However, that’s not entirely true. It turns out that there are a variety of ways that you can fight back against the condition. One approach is called oral immunotherapy. This works by exposing the body to small quantities of peanut until the body begins desensitizing to the allergen. Research shows that this technique is highly effective and can allow people to live their lives without worrying so much about allergic reactions.
How have you coped with peanut allergies? ave you tried any alternative techniques to control them? Please share via comments below.
