- Headaches
- Dark under-eye circles
- Earaches / Ear infections
- Eczema
- Asthma
- Irritability
There are many factors that can cause these symptoms in children. Therefore, it is critical to look at all possibilities. Food sensitivities is an important area to investigate because there are many common foods in one’s diet that can aggravate the body. For example, foods such as gluten, wheat, dairy, soy, corn, citrus, and eggs are often the main culprits. These foods can trigger the immune system and result in delayed food reactions. These reactions are different than a true allergic response such as anaphylaxis that occurs immediately after ingesting a certain food. Sensitivities to foods tend to show up anywhere from hours to days after ingesting troublesome foods. There is also a wide variety of symptoms beyond the 6 listed above. Other symptoms include behavior and attention problems, depression, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and anger. Because symptoms are so varied and are delayed, it can be a bit challenging determining which foods are causing the problem.
Fortunately there is simple blood test done through Village Green that can screen for food sensitivities. Based on the results, a plan is created specific for the child. In general, all foods that rank moderate/high are best eliminated from the diet for a period of 3-6 months while other foods are rotated in the diet. This allows the digestive system and immune system to begin the process of healing. Other beneficial supplements such as glutamine, probiotics, digestive enzymes, fish oil, and a high quality multivitamin can also provide added healing support.
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