In recent years, the rate of allergies has increased dramatically. The rise of environmental toxins, processed foods and food additives, newly introduced chemicals, and increased use of medications are all possible contributing factors to the development of allergies. An area of concern is the affect of these factors on our intestinal or “gut” walls. Our gut is the stronghold of our immune system as it interfaces with both internal and external environments. When the gut walls become hyper-permeable to substances that could be allergenic it activates our immune cells to make antibodies. These antibody and allergen immune complexes enter into circulation where they illicit an inflammatory reaction in tissues and organs. This is called leaky gut syndrome, which is typically present in individuals with food allergies, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory bowel diseases.
The article below talks about the changes in our food sources and diets that have affected our generation, and why our grandparents never dealt with these issues on this scale.
http://www.realfarmacy.com/grandparents-didnt-food-allergies/