Allergies

Allergies — are states of heightened reactivity of the immune system, in which the body begins to perceive safe substances as threats.

An allergic reaction is not an independent disease in the classical sense, but reflects deep disturbances in immune regulation, barrier functions, and nutrient exchange.

From the perspective of functional medicine, allergies are seen as a consequence of chronic inflammation, imbalance of the immune response, and dysfunction of the intestines, liver, and nervous system. Symptoms can manifest from the skin, respiratory tract, digestive tract, and mucous membranes.

Main mechanisms of development

Normally, the immune system distinguishes between dangerous and safe external factors. In allergies, this recognition mechanism is disrupted, and an excessive immune reaction is triggered:

• shift of the immune response towards Th2 reactions;
• excessive production of immunoglobulin E;
• activation of mast cells and release of histamine;
• increased permeability of mucous membranes and intestinal barrier;
• chronic low-grade inflammation.

Role of the intestines and microbiota

Up to 70 percent of the immune system is related to the intestines, so the condition of the mucosa and microbiota directly affects the development of allergic reactions. Damage to the intestinal barrier leads to the entry of undigested proteins into the bloodstream and the formation of immune sensitization.

Possible causes of allergies:

• dysbiosis and reduced diversity of microbiota;
• damage to tight junctions of intestinal epithelium;
• excessive antigenic load on the immune system;
• disruption of short-chain fatty acid synthesis.

Nutrient deficiencies and allergies

Deficiencies of trace elements and vitamins reduce the immune system’s ability to regulate adequately and enhance inflammatory reactions:

• zinc — necessary for balancing the immune response and restoring mucous membranes;
• magnesium — reduces hyperreactivity and supports the nervous system;
• vitamin D — regulates innate and adaptive immunity;
• vitamin A — supports the integrity of mucous membranes;
• Omega-3 fatty acids — reduce inflammatory processes.

Physiological manifestations

Allergies can have various clinical forms, and the severity of symptoms does not always reflect the depth of disturbances:

• skin reactions, including itching and rashes;
• allergic rhinitis and nasal congestion;
• bronchospasm and respiratory disturbances;
• digestive disorders;
• general fatigue and decreased concentration.

Approaches to recovery

Working with allergies should focus not only on alleviating symptoms but also on restoring the body’s basic regulatory mechanisms:

• restoration of the intestinal barrier and microbiota;
• correction of deficiencies of key nutrients;
• reduction of chronic inflammatory load;
• support of the liver and detoxification pathways;
• management of stress and nervous regulation.

Conclusion

Allergies — are a reflection of systemic failure of immune regulation, not just a reaction to an external irritant. Sustainable improvement is only possible with a comprehensive approach aimed at restoring barrier functions, nutrient balance, and physiological resilience of the immune system.