A Surprising Culprit of Food Allergies

This episode of NPR's Short Wave features an interview with Dr. Waheeda Samady, an expert in food allergies, who discusses the increasing prevalence of food allergies, their biological mechanisms, and potential reasons for their rise. She explains how the body reacts to allergens, the role of immune cells and inflammation, and treatments like antihistamines and epinephrine. The discussion also covers why some individuals develop allergies, highlighting factors like eczema, gut flora, and skin barrier disruption. Dr. Samady also addresses the global variations in food allergies and the impact of food processing methods, and advises people on what to do if they suspect they have a food allergy.