Final Poster Session Abstracts
From the 2024 NANP Conference & Expo
Title: Nutrition and Lifestyle may Improve the Quality of Life of Breast Cancer Patients.
Author: Laura R. Bonilla, BSc, MSc, Doctorate Candidate in Holistic Nutrition
Affiliation: American College of Healthcare Sciences
(905) 973 6007
Abstract: Breast cancer remains a significant global health concern, with a substantial impact on patients’ physical, emotional, and social well-being. While advancements in diagnosis and medical treatments have improved survival rates, the quality of life for breast cancer patients remains a critical aspect of their overall health outcomes. The current literature review explored studies using integrative healthcare strategies to enhance the well-being of individuals undergoing breast cancer treatment, which often results in a myriad of side effects to breast cancer treatment, such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, pain, and diminished physical functioning. Additionally, conventional treatments such as surgery, radiation, and chemotherapies, often impose significant physiological and psychological burdens on patients. The studies reviewed indicate that dietary modifications are pivotal in integrative cancer care, as nutrition impacts various aspects of cancer progression, treatment response, and survivorship. Evidence suggests that diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and lean proteins may confer protective benefits against breast cancer development and recurrence while reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Additionally, integrative cancer care includes dietary interventions and lifestyle modifications encompassing physical activity, stress management, and psychosocial support. Regular exercise was shown to be associated with improvements in fatigue, muscular strength, and overall quality of life among breast cancer survivors while reducing the risk of recurrence and mortality. Complementary therapies such as acupuncture, yoga, massage therapy, and mindfulness-based interventions offer additional avenues for symptom management and emotional well-being. Thus, by integrating evidence-based interventions from conventional and complementary medicine, healthcare providers can optimize the quality of life and survivorship outcomes for individuals affected by breast cancer.
Title: An Integrative Approach to Dengue Hemorrhagic Shock Syndrome: A Case Report
Author: Dr. Winsome Beverley Christie ND, MSc, MClinPharm, PhD, FAIHM, BCHN®, Rph
Affiliation: Sunshine Pharmacy Ltd, Clarendon, Jamaica
(876) 47- 89177, (305) 381-1618, (876) 986-9085
Abstract: Dengue hemorrhagic shock syndrome has emerged as a significant public health concern in tropical regions, including Jamaica, with the Aedes aegypti mosquito serving as its viral carrier. Its symptoms range from fever and headaches to rashes and overall body pain, potentially progressing to life-threatening forms like dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome, demanding urgent intervention.This case highlights the prospect of leveraging local nutrition and botanicals as supplementary approaches in managing dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome, ultimately enhancing patient survival. The methodology involved implementing a naturopathic protocol, incorporating nutritional elements like Jamaican cow’s milk and beetroot juice, alongside botanicals such as horsetail and cayenne pepper. These additions complemented the established medical protocol for treating dengue fever, hemorrhagic fever, and shock syndrome. The outcomes demonstrated a notable improvement in the patient’s condition, with blood platelet counts increasing from 19000 x109/L upon admission to 218×109/L (within the normal range of 150-450 x109/L) within one week and at discharge. Internal bleeding, a hallmark of the illness, was conspicuously absent. Subsequent follow-ups, starting one month later, revealed positive changes in other biomarkers of dengue hemorrhagic fever, and two years later, all functional tests returned to normal levels. The botanicals—horsetail and cayenne pepper—contributed to ameliorating hemorrhage in this patient, while nutritional aids like local Jamaican cow’s milk and beetroot juice played a role in reducing thrombocytopenia. Further empirical investigations are warranted to explore the potential of these botanicals and nutritional aids as adjuncts in the therapeutic approach to dengue hemorrhagic fever and shock syndrome. This case underscores the advantages of collaborative efforts between complementary and conventional medical practitioners in addressing complex health challenges.
Title: DEI Considerations for Reproductive Care in Transgender Men: A Narrative Review
Authors: Dr. Brandy Cummings, BCHN® & Dr. Elizabeth Goodson
Affiliation: NANP
brandy@pivotalorigins.com
IG/FB: @pivotalorigins
tnl.vitality@gmail.com
Abstract: Transgender and gender non-conforming patients face several barriers when finding adequate healthcare. These are amplified in the domain of reproductive health where, despite approximately 30% of transgender men becoming pregnant, there are misconceptions about reproductive desires and needs. The spectrum of social and medical gender-affirming care can create additional obstacles that can be reduced with improved practitioner literacy and therapeutic nutrition interventions. Reproductive care falls under both transition and non-transition-related healthcare, inviting additional ambiguity in consistent approaches and knowledge among providers. Of the estimated 1 in 250 people identifying as transgender, over 30% report having adverse healthcare experiences and 20% fail to seek necessary, all-type medical care for fear of discrimination. This literature review explores barriers in reproductive care for transgender men and approaches to establishing a safe space and consistent, supportive practices from preconception and family planning through chest-feeding decisions and postpartum. Leaders in transgender healthcare promote the use of proper written and verbal language, engaging with patient advocates to improve overall care processes, training and educational resources for staff, and building a network of referral partners who are well-versed in transgender care. General transgender barriers are similar to those of other minority groups, including financial and insurance constraints, socioeconomic barriers, health record inequities, laboratory references, and cultural competence. Physiologically, the same conditions and concerns relevant to cisgender pregnancies are also applicable in transgender pregnancy, especially when related to age. There are key, actionable steps every practitioner and nutrition professional can take to collectively improve the standard of care. This responsibility of continuing education, referral networking, and conducting shared decision-making practices are crucial to improving patient safety and outcomes, as well as reducing disparities in overall transgender healthcare.
Title: Effects of a Mediterranean Diet on Women’s Fertility
Author: Tanya Ellie
Affiliation: American College of Healthcare Sciences
(858) 609-9036
Abstract: Modern women’s childbearing years have been delayed due to more women being an important part of the work force. This delay in pregnancy into the mid 30s, has often resulted in fertility issues. Diet is one of the most impactful modifiable factors affecting fertility. In this literature reviewed the studies assessed the influence of the Mediterranean diet on several aspects of women’s fertility: pre-gestational infertility, fetal growth and development, and assisted reproduction. Adherence to a Mediterranean diet had been found to correlate with a lower risk of infertility disorder and preterm birth in the majority of studies reviewed. The dietary pattern was also largely associated with a higher probability of a more successful outcome with in vitro fertilization (IVF), including improved embryo quality, retrieval, implantation, pregnancy, and birth rate. The results suggested that characteristics of the Mediterranean diet that positively affect fertility include its ideal balance of macronutrients and its abundant mix of micronutrients, both known to strengthen the body’s biological systems and reproductive health. Ultimately, evidence within the twelve studies reviewed showed that adherence to the Mediterranean diet supports women’s fertility. However, limitations were present in most studies to date. Several studies showed inconclusive results impacted by the inclusion or exclusion of certain aspects of the Mediterranean diet. Future studies should establish a standard definition of the Mediterranean diet to improve accuracy and cross-study comparability
Title: Pathway to Food Security: Garden Therapy for Mental Illness
Author: Jennifer Ferraro, NP
Affiliation: American College of Healthcare Sciences
(631) 300-6297
jferraro.npp@gmail.com
Abstract: Food is essential to our physical well-being, but now, more than ever, nutrition is recognized as a critical factor in mental health. Currently, no research links the improvement of food security through garden therapy with the correlation of improved mood and symptom management of patients living with chronic mental illness. Gardening has long been a perceived benefit for people with mental illness; however, more rigorous studies need to be conducted to show the evidence base for their efficacy as an effective treatment modality for these patients. Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) teams are designed to treat patients with severe and persistent mental illness. The role of health teams is vital to changing the course of treatment for individuals. The existing social system places the burden of change on the individual with expectation to adapt to the current environment. Current treatment fails to account for lack of access to nutritious food and how this relates to changing a person’s lifestyle. Placing the burden of change on the delivery system of healthcare will require treatment teams to re-evaluate delivery of services. The change in treatment delivery model will decrease barriers to food access when discussing nutrition and will have lasting improvements on disease management. Implementing a clinic garden, will add the action of nutrition, with locally sourced food, improve food security for patients and give value to the educational components to treatment. The social aspect of gardening and physical exercise will adjunct other forms of treatment and are expected to improve the mental health of patients involved in the garden. Specifically, a clinic garden run by an ACT team, will supplement nutrition, incorporate wellness self-management as a therapy and improve the mental health and food security for individuals with severe and persistent mental illness who are followed by this team.
Title: Mighty Magnesium: Functional Testing and Emerging Research
Author: Larissa Gourevitch CEO, Nutri-IQ, Registered Holistic Nutritionist™ (Canada), CDSP™ (USA), PhD
Affiliation: Nutri-IQ
(877) 549-1525 (toll free); (416) 419-7136
Abstract: Knowing magnesium status is essential. This mineral is crucial to the human body helping regulate over 600 different enzyme systems. Since magnesium RDA is quite high, around 48% of Americans experience magnesium deficiency (hypomagnesemia) due to insufficient intake. Unfortunately, the current methods of magnesium deficiency identification in body tissues are not entirely reliable, as they neither measure tissue concentration nor consider differences in absorption rates and body weight. To estimate tissue magnesium status, serum concentration levels are compared against reference ranges based on a 1974 study of the normal population. This outdated diagnostic testing does not always indicate a sub-clinical deficiency in tissues until a serious issue has already occurred. Besides, hypomagnesemia is often asymptomatic and is not identified until serum concentration is too low and deficiency is life-threatening. Assessing magnesium status through food questionnaires is another method that is still prone to errors due to differences in absorption rates, especially in people with higher body mass. As nutrition consultants, we often deal with obscure situations, such as side effects of cancer drugs or biological medications. Surprisingly, some of these conditions can be linked to sub-clinical hypomagnesemia, with serum magnesium concentration still within the normal range, but symptoms indicating a deficiency. Dietary changes or magnesium supplements can quickly improve these situations.This presentation provides an overview of emerging scientific research findings on subtle symptoms associated with hypomagnesemia. We also indicate conditions that can be exacerbated by low magnesium levels and thus may be improved with magnesium supplement recommendations. To assess magnesium status, we suggest utilizing functional testing that looks at the whole person’s well-being. This approach allows us to look at the deficiency problem holistically. For practitioners’ convenience, scientific findings have been summarized and incorporated into an online questionnaire in our Nutri-IQ app.
Title: Disease-fighting Potential of Phytonutrients from Four Underutilized Fruits in Taiwan
Author: Jason Kies
Affiliation: American College of Healthcare Science
Abstract: Industrialization undoubtedly brings modern conveniences that can improve the standard of living. However, industrialization, unfortunately, has initiated an increase in chronic diseases globally. For example, prior to 1970, Taiwan had a very low incidence of chronic disease and then Taiwan began its journey to industrialization. It is now considered a developed region with an industrialized economy. As with other developed countries, Taiwan has seen a surge in chronic diseases possibly attributed to an industrialized living pattern and diet. In tandem with this, the Taiwanese population has turned away from unprocessed fruits that grow in native Taiwanese soil. Of importance is the fact that evidence-based studies have shown that these fruits consumed in pre-industrialized Taiwan may have contributed to the lower levels of chronic diseases. Thus, this literature review explored the potential cardioprotective, chemoprotective, and anti-diabetic properties of four Taiwanese fruits species: Morus nigra, Myrciaria cauliflora, Artocarpus heterophyllus, and Physalis peruviana. These disease-fighting qualities have been shown to be due to the fruits’ intrinsic phytonutrients and components that, when consumed, provide protection from chronic diseases via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative pathways. Unfortunately, many of these fruits remain unknown to a large part of the Taiwanese population. Therefore, accurate information about the health-promoting potential of Taiwanese fruit species is essential to promote more use and consumption of these fruits. Thus, this literature review explored the potential cardioprotective, chemoprotective, and anti-diabetic properties of four underutilized Taiwanese fruits species: Morus nigra, Myrciaria cauliflora, Artocarpus heterophyllus, and Physalis peruviana. The current literature provides information from studies that these four fruits have been shown to prevent and ameliorate cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. Further studies are necessary to determine if these fruits could be implemented in diets globally to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Title: Medicinal Herbs for Managing Co-occurring Conditions in Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review
Author: Dr. Rachel Knowles, DCN, MS, CNS, LDN, BCHN®, CBS
Affiliation: Instructor at University of Western States, Doctor of Clinical Nutrition at Seedlings Nutrition, NANP Board of Director
unmasknutrition@gmail.com
(704) 666-3147
Abstract: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a wide range of symptoms and co-occurring conditions that can significantly impact the lives of affected individuals and their families. The prevalence of co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, gastrointestinal disturbances, sleep disturbances, challenges with detoxification pathways, and sensory sensitivities among individuals with ASD is well-documented and can exacerbate the core symptoms of ASD, thus hindering the overall well-being of affected individuals. The management of co-occurring conditions in ASD presents a unique challenge, as conventional treatment approaches often fall short in addressing the diverse needs of these individuals and medications utilized are often accompanied by adverse effects. This literature review aimed to investigate the potential effectiveness of medicinal herbs in managing co-occurring conditions in individuals with ASD. In the review of the literature regarding the use of medicinal herbs in addressing co-occurring conditions in ASD, the authors aim to explore the mechanisms of action of various herbs, their safety profiles, and their potential to alleviate symptoms commonly associated with ASD. The methodology for this research involves a comprehensive review of the available literature, including scientific studies, clinical trials, and anecdotal evidence available from PubMed. In synthesizing this available scientific literature, evidence supports the application of medicinal herbs including ashwagandha, milk thistle, ginkgo biloba, echinacea, astragalus, valerian, rhodiola, and ginger as an effective and safe complementary therapy for the management of co-occurring conditions in ASD. The effectiveness of medicinal herbs in addressing co-occurring conditions in ASD offers the possibility of personalized and holistic approaches to treatment that may enhance the quality of life for those affected by this complex disorder. This research contributes to the ongoing dialogue on integrative healthcare and encourages further exploration of alternative therapies in the management of ASD and its associated challenges
Title: Haitian Tradition of Herbal Medicine
Author: Margaret Kotzalas
Affiliation: American College of Healthcare Science
margaret.kotzalas@achs.edu
Abstract: There is a rich tradition of herbal medicine in Haiti. It is made up of common and specialized knowledge of plants and the spiritual world. The system of herbal medicine includes three main levels of practice that are believed to work synergistically and with consideration of the connection between a person’s mind, spirit, body, society, and universe. With the sociopolitical unrest over the past 10 years, modern healthcare is nearly nonexistent. Therefore, herbal medicine is vital to the health of the population. The purpose of this study was to examine the Haitian tradition and system of herbal medicine for common health concerns of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, integumentary, immune, and central nervous systems, including bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections. To identify the plants, pharmacognosy, botanical information, and formulary used in Haiti for medicinal purposes, the author conducted a literature review of PubMed, Google Scholar, Google, Google Books, Amazon Books, and WorldCat library for published books and peer reviewed journal articles. The searches were not limited by language or date of publication. The study found that approximately 44 plants are commonly used in Haitian herbal medicine for these health concerns, with the most frequent method of preparation being decoction of the applicable parts of the plants with the resultant liquid drunk as a tea. The majority of these plants are similar to those used in the North American and Western European systems of herbal medicine. However, approximately 25% of the plants are native to the Caribbean and Central America and are not found in the United States and European pharmacopeias. Because of this, a limitation of this study is the lack of information about the phytochemical composition and possible active constituents of these plants.
Title: Therapeutic Efficacy of Curcumin Across Varied Inflammatory Pathologies
Author: Tiffany P. Lewis
Affiliation: American College of Healthcare Sciences
(805) 404-5631
Lewis.tiffany.p@gmail.com
www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyplewis
Abstract: Globally, three in five people will die due to a chronic inflammatory disease. According to the CDC, 3 million U.S. adults reported being diagnosed with inflammatory diseases in 2015. Additionally, in the next 30 years, the number of diseases associated with chronic inflammation is expected to rise at an alarming rate. Curcumin, the principal curcuminoid in turmeric, has undergone extensive investigation for potential prevention and treatment of diverse inflammatory conditions. However, limited exploration of its efficacy across various inflammatory subtypes has been done. This literature review is designed to systematically examine the therapeutic effectiveness of curcumin in specified inflammatory disorders such as Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Arthritis, Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), and Cancer. This literature review involved the comprehensive analysis of over 150 reviews and experimental studies. Inclusion criteria mandated a focus on the utilization of curcumin as a therapeutic intervention for inflammation. Studies emphasizing alternative constituents of turmeric for inflammation treatment were deemed beyond the scope of this investigation and were thus excluded. This study supports the efficacy of curcumin in reducing inflammation associated with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), arthritis, Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), and cancer. However, incongruities in procedural methodologies limit definitive conclusions about curcumin’s relative effectiveness for specific inflammatory disorders. Identified discrepancies and gaps in data, especially in dosage and treatment duration, along with infrequent explication of curcumin assay procedures, impede the comparative assessment of herbal protocols. While the primary objective of this study was to assess the therapeutic efficacy of curcumin across various inflammatory pathologies, substantial deficiencies in procedural protocols precluded a conclusive determination. The identification of these deficiencies holds paramount importance for the scientific community, underscoring the necessity for standardized practices. The establishment of such protocols is imperative for a comprehensive understanding of the effectiveness of therapeutic herbal interventions within the scientific milieu.
Title: Gluten, the Gut, and Mental Health Disorders
Author: Anne Barbo Moon
Affiliation: American College of Healthcare Sciences
annemoon@beautifullyglutenfree.com
www.beautifulluyglutenfree.com
IG @beautifullyglutenfreephotos
Abstract: About 26% of Americans have at least one mental health disorder (MHD) with 9.5% of Americans experiencing depression, including major depressive disorder, 2.6% suffering from bipolar disorder, and about 1% have schizophrenia. Many of those living with a MHD are not properly diagnosed and/or do not respond to current MHD medications. As shown in this literature review, researchers have reviewed serum profiles of biomarkers, such as zonulin, which increases with the consumption of gluten, gluten-related antibodies, and proinflammatory markers, to evaluate intestinal permeability, an immune reaction to gluten, and neuroinflammation, which could direct more effective treatment options for those with MHDs. Historically, celiac disease (CD) has been the only disease that employs the gluten free diet (GFD) for treatment, but while there is a lot of controversy around the use of the GFD for other diseases, many of those with MHDs have experience symptom relief while following the GFD. Many individuals with MHDs have a distinctly dysregulated microbiome with increased levels of zonulin and proinflammatory markers, which suggests intestinal permeability, systemic inflammation, and have detectable levels of gluten-related antibodies. Brain imaging has been able to show alterations to white matter volume in those with CD and MHDs, independently, and researchers have also found that the mentioned biomarkers are detectable prior to white matter alterations have occurred. There is a high rate of comorbidity between MHDs and CD, are often misdiagnosed, and that testing for zonulin, gluten-related antibodies, and inflammatory markers could improve accuracy of diagnoses, whether the MHD is presenting as undiagnosed CD or not and increase efficacy of treatments upon adopting the GFD when serum markers are elevated. This review explored the current understandings about MHDs, intestinal permeability, the microbiome, gluten, the immune response and found links between the consumption of gluten with the onset of and trajectory of MHDs.
Title: Variation in Beef’s Fatty Acid Profile and Its Role in Human Health
Author: Autumn Smith
Affiliation: American College of Healthcare Services, Utah State University
(818) 378-2106
Abstract: Beef is one of the most controversial foods in our modern diet due to its reported links with disease and potential environmental impacts. Irrespective of its husbandry, beef is also a nutrient dense food rich in several essential nutrients (protein, iron, zinc and B vitamins) that many people are deficient in worldwide. A growing body of research also suggests that many variables affect beef’s nutritional profile (breed, age, management, soil, feed), and grass-fed beef (GFB) may have nutrient profiles more in alignment with current dietary recommendations than grain-fed beef (GrFB). The role of agroecological practices and their effect on fatty acid profiles, particularly in North American beef, warrants exploration given the unstandardized “grass-fed” labeling and its potential consumer impact. This study aims to compare the fatty acid profiles of GFB and GrFB from over 100 North American farms with diverse agroecological practices via the collection of beef, soil and forage samples, and management data. The results showed that GFB exhibited a more favorable omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, higher concentrations of n-3 fatty acids (ALA, EPA, and DPA), and lower levels of linoleic acid (LA) compared to GrFB (all, p<0.05). Variations in fatty acid concentrations were found to be independent of soil parameters but lower omega 6:3 ratios correlated with plant diversity (r=0.35, p<0.05). The nutritional quality of beef is substantially influenced by the finishing diet, with GFB showing a profile that may better support human health. These findings underscore the importance of clear labeling and standardization in beef production practices. The absence of correlation between soil quality and fatty acid content highlights the need for further research on the direct effects of forage on beef’s fatty acid composition.
Title: Iodine Consumption and the Correlation to Thyroid Antibodies in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis
Author: Chrissy Spencer, MS, RYT-200
Affiliation: Saybrook University
caippuccinohealth@gmail.com
http://www.caippuccinohealth.com
Abstract: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition that currently affects 14 million individuals in the United States. The key diagnostic factor for Hashimoto’s is elevated thyroid antibodies, specifically TPO-Ab antibodies. It is known that iodine is a critical mineral for thyroid health and to prevent goiter development. At one time, iodized salt ensured that individuals had adequate iodine intake. However, with increased concerns around salt consumption along with drinking less milk, people are now getting less iodine through their diets. As well, soil levels can vary a great deal with how much iodine they contain. Iodine intake for individuals who have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is a debated topic with practitioners concerned that the increased iodine intake will also increase disease activity. It is critical to understand how much iodine one is consuming and how it may impact thyroid antibodies. This paper examines research from areas that added supplemental iodine and monitored thyroid antibodies in individuals who had Hashimoto’s to see if there was an ideal range for thyroid function and lowered antibody development.
Title: Probiotics in Alleviating Depression: Potential of Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum
Author: Tamra Tompkins
Affiliation: Nutrition Therapy Institute
tamra@thewholisticchef.com
@thewholisticchef
(563) 505-3225
Abstract: Depression, a prevalent mental health disorder, presents a global burden, impacting peoples’ mental well-being and overall quality of life. Traditional pharmaceuticals exist, although their efficacy and tolerability vary and is a call for research into alternative therapies. Probiotics, notably Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum strains, have emerged as promising candidates due to their ability to regulate gut-brain axis signaling, inflammation, and neurotransmitter levels. Additionally, since the use of antidepressant medications often results in adverse effects, such as decreased alertness, headaches and nausea, there is a need for adjunct therapies. Research has focused on the gut-brain axis as a potential avenue for understanding and treating depression. Probiotics, known for their beneficial effects on gut microbiota, have emerged as a promising intervention due to their potential to modulate the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain. The current literature review summarizes findings from various studies which suggest the beneficial mechanisms of the antidepressant effects of L. helveticus and B. longum probiotic strains. This review offers insights into how probiotics may mitigate depressive symptoms by their impact on neurotransmitter synthesis, immune function modulation, gut microbiota composition, and inflammatory pathways. The studies showed that probiotic supplementation with L. helveticus and B. longum strains may have beneficial effects on depression by restoring gut microbial balance, reducing systemic inflammation, and modulating neurochemical pathways involved in mood regulation. By targeting the gut-brain axis and regulating key pathways associated with depression, probiotics offer an approach to enhancing traditional antidepressant treatments. Through a personalized and integrative approach to mental health care, probiotics have the potential to complement existing treatments and improve therapeutic outcomes for individuals with depression. Further research is needed to validate the efficacy, safety, and optimal dosing regimens of probiotics in depression management, ultimately offering new avenues for personalized and holistic mental health care.
Title: Food Allergies and The Gut Microbiome
Author: Corinne Trimarchi NTP, FMCHC, BCHN®
Affiliation: Nutritional Therapy Association, IFM, NANP
Holisticnutritionnj@gmail.com
(732) 648-3379
Abstract: Food allergies have become increasingly prevalent, particularly among children, and are a leading cause of anaphylaxis. The limited treatment options available, such as allergen avoidance, epinephrine administration, and oral immunotherapy, offer only partial relief and carry high risks. However, recent studies have focused on the potential role of the gut microbiome in addressing food allergies. This literature review has shown that imbalances in the microbiome, such as an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria, have been linked to an increased risk of food allergies. We know that approximately 70% of the immune system resides in the gut; therefore, it is crucial to establish a healthy and diverse microbiome early in life to support optimal immune function and reduce the risk and severity of food allergies. Commensal bacteria play a vital role in promoting oral tolerance to food allergens, particularly through short chain fatty acid production, the development and differentiation of T-regulatory cells, management of secretory IgA levels, and maintenance of epithelial barrier integrity. Strategies to support the gut microbiome include breastfeeding, dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and targeted supplementation. By implementing a gut-restoring protocol, known as the 5R protocol, it may be possible to restore balance to the microbiome, improve immune health, and provide promising hope for reducing the risk and severity of food allergies.
