The zinc and copper status of 43 allergic children suffering from asthma or
eczema was compared with healthy children. The hair zinc level was lower in
allergic children and the serum and hair copper levels were higher. The
investigators conclude that allergic children seem to be particularly at risk
of zinc deficiency. Di Toro R et al: Zinc and copper status of allergic
children. Acta Paediatr Scand 76(4):612-7, 1987.
Immunological sequelae of magnesium deficiency in humans may be affected by
genetic control of blood cell magnesium concentration. Abnomal complement
activation, excess antibody production and susceptibility to allergy and to
chronic fungal and viral infections have been reported. Galland L: Magnesium
and immune function: an overview. Magnesium 7(5-6):290-9, 1988.
Many so-called food allergies may be caused by abnormalities of the
intestinal bacteria, causing toxic chemical compounds to enter the blood. If
these compounds only result from the digestion of one particular food, the
patient may believe he has a food allergy. Hunter JO: Food allergy - or
enterometabolic disorder. Lancet 338(8765):495, 1991.
