Alcohol Causes Allergies

Researchers in Spain have published a report claiming moderate alcohol consumption may worsen reactions in people who are prone to developing allergies.

Scientists at Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de Santiago report that drinking one alcoholic drink a day increased levels of Ig6 antibodies in a sample of patients. These antibodies over-react to substances such as pollen and house dust causing allergic reactions.

The good news is, it may not be the alcohol itself but the ingredients in certain alcoholic beverages that cause the phenomenon.

Edith Maskell of Bromley Health Management explains "In our experience, the grains used to make beer, or ingredients in wine (usually red) can worsen allergies to environmental allergens or intolerances to dairy and other foods. As a result, alcohol often plays a part in illness, where allergies and intolerances are one of the causal factors. We rarely tell our patients to give up alcohol altogether, but we may advise them to try avoiding certain drinks for a short period of time until their condition improves".

For information on screening for allergies and intolerances, contact Bromley Health Management.

Saturday, 2 February 2002