(3/2023) Most people hear the word allergies and think of ragweed, pollen or other environmental irritants that cause congestion, sneezing and headaches. Another common thought is shellfish or other seafood allergies. Food allergies are not as well known because environmental allergies seem to affect more people or at least that's what I thought. I knew about some food allergies because I and some people I know have allergic reactions to some simple foods like chicken, potatoes and shellfish.

What I recently discovered is that I am sensitive and intolerant of some other foods that have been causing chronic headaches and body fatigue for years. Just because foods have health benefits like protein, nutrients and healthy omega fats doesn't mean they are good for everyone.

I recently learned about histamine intolerance. I did not realize histamine can build up all through your body and cause chronic problems. After years of dealing with headaches I was amazed to discover the foods I was eating everyday and thinking they were healthy for me were really causing my chronic symptoms. The reason I wanted to share this information is not to give people a reason to stop eating healthy. We can all find enough junk food we would rather be eating. I wanted to bring to light something that, unless you or someone you know has a problem with certain foods you may not think about. What you are eating could be causing your symptoms.

If you are having a reoccurring problem with fatigue, headache or whatever you may be feeling, think about your diet. Do some research on what your problem is and see if food could be affecting it. The best place to start is with your doctor. Sometimes we think the problem we are having is only happening to us and nobody will know what to do for it. Talking to the doctor or a health professional that is well educated and deals with health issues all the time have probably heard of the symptoms and may have a simple answer.

Of course, we can check the internet for answers but don't let what you read scare you or convince you that you have something terrible. The information can be helpful in giving you ideas as to what questions to ask or what type of health professional to see but the information can also confuse you. I have found a great way to discover useful information is to talk with family and friends. Many times they may be dealing with similar problems or know someone who is. Talking with family and friends could also confuse you so take all information you find with a grain of salt and keep researching until you find what works for you.

As I said before, I am sharing this information with you because I had no idea some common, healthy foods could cause problems for people. Because of what I learned about my own food intolerance. I am getting back to feeling better and able to do the things I enjoy without dealing with headaches several times a week. I am not saying food is your trigger but suggesting it is worth considering. If you have chronic health issues examine your diet, environment or anything else that you are in contact with on a daily basis.

My issues could have been improved or eliminated years ago if I had any idea some common, everyday foods could possibly be causing them. Sometimes it's just a simple comment or conversation with someone that triggers a solution for you. It can also let you know you are not alone with the condition and there may be a simple way to fix the problem.

Our food today seems to be more packaged, processed and has more preservatives than years ago. While this may be part of the problem with food intolerance, even fresh foods can cause a reaction for some people. I will not list any foods because not everyone has a problem with the same things.

Exercise can help with chronic body fatigue and headaches along with congestion and symptoms caused by environmental conditions. The more we move our bodies the more flexible and strong they become. An exercise routine helps with energy, weight loss and many health issues people face. Along with physically helping our bodies, exercise helps us mentally with mood, self-esteem, depression and social interaction.

I hope this article will inspire you to think about how you are feeling, if you have any reoccurring ailments and give you some direction into talking with your doctor about what you may be able to do. Discovering what may be causing your symptoms and what you may be able to do to eliminate them. Finding the cause of the problem is more helpful than just taking medication to ease the symptoms. Medication is a wonderful tool for improving our health but sometimes it can be done with natural solutions.

Remember to Keep Moving for your body, mind and soul. You'll be glad you did.