Poor Sleep, Lack of Exercise Increase Risk of Nut Allergy

Nut allergy sufferers are at greater risk of a dangerous reaction if they have not slept well or have taken strenuous exercise.

Nuts. Photo: Maksim Shutov/Unsplash

In an experiment, allergy sufferers were given increasing amounts of peanut flour to eat until they had an allergic reaction, which was treated quickly. This was repeated when they were exercising and when they were deprived of sleep.

The findings of the study, funded by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) and carried out at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, have been described as "hugely significant".

Allergies remain an under-researched subject and the findings of the study will pave the way for a greater understanding of the factors that can lead to reactions and better labelling.

Lead investigator at Addenbrooke's, Dr Shelley Dua, said: "Precautionary allergen labels on food such as the commonly used 'May contain traces of..." are currently quite vague and not very helpful.

"This is partly because until now we simply haven't known enough about the amount of allergen which causes a reaction and how day to day factors like tiredness and exercise affect allergic reactions." (Tasnim News Agency)

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