Why triggers food allergies and intolerances

High -processed foods are an integral part of modern eating habits. They promise comfort, long hold and intensive taste – but their regular consumption carries considerable risks to Health. Numerous studies suggest that the consumption of such food favors the emergence of allergies and intolerances. But what makes high -processed foods so problematic and how can we protect ourselves from their negative effects?

What are highly processed foods?

High -made foods, also as “Ultra-Processed Foods”(Upfs) Described are industrial products that consist of a variety of ingredients and have often been changed chemically or physically. They often contain:

• Sugar, salt and unhealthy fat: These substances are added to high quantities to improve taste and texture.
• Artificial additives: This includes preservatives, dyes, flavors, emulsifiers and flavor enhancers.
• Industrially processed ingredients: Instead of natural components, modified strengths, hardened fats or isolates such as soy and milk proteins are used.

Typical examples of highly processed foods are:

• Ready dishes and frozen products
• Lemonades and soft drinks
• Snacks like chips and cookies
• Sweets, breakfast flakes and instant soups

Why can highly processed foods and intolerances trigger?

The consumption of highly processed food is associated with a variety of health problems. The development of allergies and intolerances is promoted by these products. Here are the main reasons:

1. Artificial additives irritate the immune system

Many highly processed foods contain additives such as dyes, emulsifiers and preservatives that can irritate the immune system. Examples are:

• Sulfite: Is often used as a preservative in dried fruits or wine and can trigger allergy -like symptoms such as shortness of breath.
• Benzoate: These preservatives are suspected of causing rashes or digestive problems.
• Glutamat: Known as a flavor enhancer, it can trigger headaches and allergy -like reactions in sensitive people.

2. Damage to the intestinal flora

The intestinal flora plays a central role in immune defense. Highly processed foods that are rich in sugar, salt and chemical additives can disturb the balance of the intestinal microbiota. This leads to an increased permeability of the intestinal mucosa (“leaky good syndrome”), which makes allergens more easily into the bloodstream and overkeep the immune system.

3. Inflammatory ingredients

Many high-quality foods contain inflammatory substances such as trans fats and an excess of omega-6 fatty acids. Chronic inflammation increase the likelihood of allergies and intolerances.

4. Monotonous and unbalanced diet

Highly processed foods often displace nutrient -rich, natural foods. A lack of fiber, vitamins and secondary plant substances weakens the immune function and promotes the development of sensitivity to certain foods.

5. Early childhood influence

Early consumption of highly processed food in children is particularly problematic. In this sensitive development phase, chemical additives and one -sided Nutrition can promote the development of allergies and intolerances.

How can you reduce the risk?

1. focus on natural and unprocessed foods

A diet based on fresh, unprocessed food is the best protection against allergies and intolerances. Are particularly recommended:

• fruit and vegetables
• Whole grain products
• Nuts, seeds and legumes
• Fresh meat and fish

2. Read labels and avoid additives

Many allergens and problematic substances are hidden in the ingredients. Avoid products with:

• Long ingredients
• Unknown or chemically sounding terms (e.g. e-numbers)

3. Promote intestinal health

A healthy intestinal flora can prevent allergies and intolerances. Probiotics (e.g. in yogurt or fermented foods such as sauerkraut) and fiber -rich foods (e.g. whole grain, fruit, vegetables) support intestinal health.

4. Reduce artificial additives

Cook as fresh as possible and use natural spices and ingredients. Finished products that are rich in additives should remain the exception.

5. Avoid sensitivity in children

Promote a balanced and varied diet in children based on natural foods. Let them try different foods early to build tolerances.

Question the background of the food industry

The food industry primarily has economic interests. Your products are designed to make maximum profits, often at the expense of the health of consumers. Highly processed foods are cheap to produce, long -lasting and optimized for fast consumption. The health consequences such as allergies, intolerances or chronic diseases are ignored or covered by aggressive marketing strategies. A conscious diet therefore also requires critical inquiries: Which ingredients are really in the products and what long -term effects do you have?

The inactivity of politics

Despite the obvious risks, politics, starting with the EU and business -related parties, undertakes hardly any effective measures to contain the irresponsibility of the food industry. This is called neoliberalism. There are regulations for labeling and food safety, but these often do not go far enough to protect consumers’ health. Leaves in the legislation and the influence of lobby groups of the food industry prevent strict regulations that would be necessary to limit the distribution of highly processed products. The interests of industry seem to have priority over the health of the population, which underlines the need for consumer education and political pressure.

Conclusion

High -processed foods can promote the development of allergies and intolerances by irritating the immune system, damaging intestinal health and promoting inflammatory processes. A diet based on natural and unprocessed foods is the most effective protection against them Health problems. By making conscious food and avoiding industrial products, we not only contribute to our health, but also to a more sustainable lifestyle.