Allergic to Life: How the Human Body Rejects the Modern World

The book discusses how modern lifestyle changes, such as longer work hours, artificial lighting, increased food shelf life, and changes to the microbiome, have contributed to an epidemic of allergic and autoimmune diseases. It outlines how the immune system responds to harmful substances in the environment, leading to symptoms such as itching, aches, pains, swelling, coughing, and fatigue. The author emphasizes that all roads of inflammation from the environment lead to the "mast cell compartment," and that understanding how the body changes itself in response to its environment can allow for controlled desensitization to the environment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 179 pages
Publication date: 10 December 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

The impact of various factors on our daily lives has led to a rise in bodily inflammation, resulting in an epidemic of allergic and autoimmune diseases across the globe. While outdoor climate change is widely acknowledged, the influence of longer work hours, artificial lighting, extended food shelf lives, and changes to the microbiome on allergies has also garnered significant attention.

An allergy, characterized as a harmful response from the immune system triggered by environmental substances, begins with warning signals or generalized symptoms. These symptoms can include itching, aches, pains, swelling, coughing, and fatigue, which are immune responses. Written in an engaging and often humorous style by an allergist/immunologist, the book's first three chapters establish that the human body is inherently exposed to harmful environments, and the immune system is merely performing its duties.

Subsequent chapters delve into the specific topics contributing to allergies, starting with microorganisms and focusing on indoor living. Dust mites, for instance, receive dedicated attention, as the past few decades have witnessed an explosion of climate-controlled, humidified indoor spaces, ideal for the mass production of these allergens.

The author emphasizes that all roads of inflammation from the environment lead to the "mast cell compartment." Stress responses in the body drive up this compartment, leading to a global prevalence of between 14% to 17% of "mast cell activation syndrome." While genetics and comorbid conditions play a role in symptom or disease development, the book underscores the importance of addressing environmental factors in managing and reducing allergies.

By recognizing the impact of these factors on our daily lives, individuals can take steps to mitigate their exposure and reduce the risk of developing allergies. This includes adopting practices such as maintaining a clean and hygienic environment, reducing exposure to indoor allergens, managing stress, and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, this comprehensive title provides valuable insights into the changes in daily life that have contributed to increased bodily inflammation and the prevalence of allergies worldwide. By understanding the underlying mechanisms and taking proactive measures, individuals can improve their health and well-being and reduce the impact of these environmental factors on their lives.

Weight: 501g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031460258
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023