Hypersensitivity, intolerance of the immune system

There is an increase in hypersensitivity in France. Mites, pollens, molds, foods, many are the allergens responsible in some people for unpleasant physical manifestations.

THE IMMUNE SYSTEM, A FABULOUSLY COMPLEX AND RAPID DEFENSE SYSTEM

The purpose of the immune system is to detect foreign substances, called antigens, to identify their characteristics and to trigger defensive measures to neutralize and eliminate them.

The immune system is also very tolerant of innocuous antigens such as food. Hypersensitivity, defined as loss of tolerance, is an inappropriate response of the body's defense system against these allergens.

Mites, pollen, molds, foods and animal dander are numerous allergens, well tolerated by the majority of the population, but responsible for some unpleasant physical manifestations (sneezing, respiratory discomfort, cutaneous discomfort ...). They can affect the skin, intestines, respiratory system, sinuses, nose or eyes. The biological mechanisms of hypersensitivity most often occur after 2 successive contacts with the allergen.

1^st CONTACT: AWARENESS

When an antigen enters the body through the skin or mucous membranes, the immune system incorrectly identifies this non-self-molecule as dangerous, generating production and distribution throughout the body of antibodies (IgE type) directed against this allergen. This first phase is then kept in memory by the organism.

2^nd CONTACT: IMMEDIATE REACTION

At the second introduction of the antigen into the body, the immune system is ready to react. Activated anti-antigen antibodies are immediately produced in large quantities by B lymphocytes. A cascade of defense reactions ensues, including the release of histamine and substances such as leukotrienes and prostaglandins (also referred to as mediators), responsible for Of the main events.

QUESTION TO NATHALIE BALLESTEROS, DOCTOR OF PHARMACY AND NATUROPATH AND TRAINING MANAGER OF LESCUYER LABORATORY

There is an increase in the prevalence of hypersensitivity in France and a change in dietary habits for several decades, can these two concomitant phenomena be linked?

Today, in France, 1 in 3 people is affected by respiratory discomfort linked to inhalation of antigens such as pollens, mites and animal dander. This figure was multiplied by 7 in 40 years.

The causes of the increase in the number of hypersensitive subjects are multiple: increased exposure to domestic antigens (apartment confinement and multiplication of domestic animals), passive smoking in children, pollution (chemicals More and more numerous and aggressive) and, indeed, the modification of eating habits.

Specifically, there is a decline in omega-3 consumption in favor of omega-6 (fewer fatty fish and more sunflower oil are consumed), which favors a more reactive field.

Similarly, the consumption of antioxidants (fruit and vegetables) is decreasing, which limits our defenses against the free radicals induced by the hypersensitivity.

Moreover, the reduction in fiber consumption contributes to weakening our intestinal microbiota, which is a major actor in the phenomenon of immune tolerance.

And finally, the increase in the consumption of new products (exotic fruit, sesame, additives ...) is also a factor favoring hypersensitivity due to the introduction of new substances for our immune system.

Source: Lescuyer Laboratory