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Scientists in Spain are reporting
a link between moderate alcohol consumption and antibodies found at high
levels in people prone to developing allergies.
The antibodies, known as IgE
antibodies, cause allergic symptoms by overreacting
to generally harmless substances inhaled from the air such as pollen,
mold or animal dander.
In patients allergic to house
dust mites, regular alcohol intake was associated with increased (blood)
levels of specific IgE against these mites.
The findings are more likely
to offer clues on how the immune system functions with regard to allergies
than to provide new strategies for allergy treatment.
If you drink moderate alcohol
you are more likely to develop an allergic reaction to something.
Alcoholism: Clinical and
Experimental Research January 2002;26:60-64
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