Eating and allergy

Abstract: The history and methodology of clinical ecology are explored in a survey of diseases resulting from an individual's reaction to food, drink, drugs, or environmental chemicals. The medical controversy surrounding the diagnosis, prevention, and control of food allergies is examined. Allergies may provoke symptoms in more than one body system, due to sensitivity to one or more substances. Both genetic and environmental factors play a role in susceptibility. Specific conditions, such as celiac disease, milk intolerance, bed-wetting, hyperactivity, mental disorders, obesity, alcoholism, and arthritis, are described in terms of allergic disease. Case histories illustrate the use of drugs in treating allergy. Theories proposed discuss which diets are healthy and which are harmful. Appendices review food families, hidden foods, additives, diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, and immunological classification of allergies. (nm).