A: Many studies have shown that food allergies play an important role in asthma. Obvious food allergies produce an immediate reaction such as hives, swelling, sneezing, wheezing, headache or stomach upset. The usual culprits are nuts and shellfish.
However, delayed food allergies, which are harder to detect, are much more important. These allergies can be best detected through an elimination diet. Common delayed food allergies include dairy, sugar, wheat, citrus and food coloring. Diet is the key to controlling asthma. Pediatrician Dr. William Crook’s book, Detecting Your Hidden Allergies, (Professional Books, 1988) describes how to plan an elimination diet for your child.
Diet's connection to asthma
Dr. Jonathan Wright’s program for asthma stresses a multifaceted approach, starting with diet. As you mentioned, one important facet of Dr. Wright’s program is the use of hydrochloric acid to ensure proper digestion of food and thus prevent any additional burden on the immune system. The dose may be increased very slowly to two or three capsules per meal or until your child feels a sensation of warmth in her tummy.
According to Dr. Wright, in his “Nutrition And Healing” newsletter (1-800-528-0559), a 1931 study showed that 80% of asthmatic children had lower than normal production of acid and pepsin in their stomachs. Wright says this impairs digestion, lowers the absorption of vitamins and minerals from food and gradually increases allergies to food. Meanwhile, food allergies (especially to cow’s milk) can cause low stomach acid, and thus a vicious cycle is set up.
The HCL treatment
To break the cycle, hydrochloric acid is prescribed. Hydrochloric acid is ideally taken under the supervision of a naturopathic doctor. The usual recommendation is to start by taking one-half to one hydrochloric capsule (10 grains) at the two largest meals of the day.
