In my work creating customized anti-inflammatory diets, one of the trickiest sensitivities to deal with is salicylate sensitivity.
When salicylates show high in the Mediator Release Test (MRT), it translates to an exhaustive analysis of every food before deeming it safe to it for that person.
Salicylates sensitivity is near impossible to identify without such sophisticated testing because so many foods we think of as “healthy” are full of these naturally occurring compounds. Synthetic salicylates may be added to many medicines, perfumes, and personal care products. Those with salicylate sensitivity need to be aware of both sources when they are looking to find relief.
Salicylate sensitivity can manifest in anything from migraines to skin issues to autoimmunity. One of my clients arrived battling severe psoriasis that had recently escalated with new patches and swelling in her face and eyelids. Testing showed she was highly reactive to salicylates.
We started her off on a tailored anti-inflammatory diet that was low in salicylates. Immediately, the puffiness and new patches receded, but long-term spots were unresponsive. We adjusted her diet to be entirely salicylate-free and the change in her body was dramatic after only two weeks.
She realized that the daily “green-smoothie” health kick she and her husband had been following had actually been making her skin much worse, full as it was of salicylates in the leafy greens!
So much for blindly following generalized health advice!
