What You Need To Know About Allergies ? (5)

Why do we get allergies?

Genetics: The exact cause of allergies is unknown. But genetics do play a part. If one parent has allergies of any kind, chances are 1 in 3 that his or her child will have some type of allergy. If both parents have allergies, the odds are even greater. Also, people exposed to substances when they are sick or their body's defense system is weak may later develop allergies to those triggers.

Hygiene hypothesis: Another theory is what's called the "hygiene hypothesis." Some studies suggest that allergy rates are growing because today's ultra-sanitized world has not allowed people to build up immunities to substances that cause allergies.

Other: Other theories include increase of pollution, higher prevalence of chemicals in daily lives, not eating locally grown food and the fall in popularity of breast-feeding. But no research has firmly proven any theory.