To stop this vicious cycle, you need to digest your foods better, add more friendly bacteria (probiotics), and soothe your intestinal linings.

There are three supplements vital in helping you repair your digestive tract: probiotics, enzymes, and glutamine.

Of all the probiotics on the market, my three favorites are Dr. Ohhira's Probiotics 12 Plus, Natren’s Healthy Trinity (both available in many health food stores), and Women's Preferred Advanced Probiotic Formula (800-728-2288).

Digestive enzymes are helpful if your body is no longer making enough of them. It's often helpful to take enzymes after meals for three or four months. Don’t become dependent on them. But if you're not digesting your food well, they could help you over this bump in your road to fewer allergies and greater revitalization.

Glutamine is an amino acid that helps repair your intestinal lining. Take 250-500 mg three times a day for three months. Or eat foods that are high in glutamine, such as green vegetables and legumes.

Haas, Elson M., MD. The New Detox Diet, Celestial Arts, 2004.

Melina, Vesanto, MS, RD, Jo Sepaniak, MSEd, and Dina Aronson, MS, RD. Food Allergy Survival Guide, Healthy Living Publications, 2004.