Media Release this World Allergy Week: Allergy Care is Essential Care
Allergy Care is Essential Care | World Allergy Week | 21–27 June 2026 | Media Release The Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA) and Allergy Society of South Africa (ALLSA) are joining global partners and the World Allergy Organisation to observe World Allergy...
Clean Earth Nourish Bowl
Earth Day Recipe “Clean Earth Nourish Bowl” A simple, whole food meal using fresh, minimally processed ingredients to support gut health and reduce exposure to unwanted chemicals. Free from: Gluten, wheat, dairy, egg, peanut, tree nut, soya. Ingredients Serves 4 Base...
Key facts of Primary Immunodeficiencies and the Impact of a Diagnosis
Key facts of Primary Immunodeficiencies and the Impact of a Diagnosis Over 550 forms exist, affecting people of all ages. Approximately 6 million people worldwide live with Primary Immunodeficiencies, yet 70-90% remain undiagnosed. Not contagious – these conditions...
Pesticides, Plastics and Human Health
PESTICIDES AND PLASTICS – DETRIMENTAL EFFECTS ON HUMAN HEALTH In today’s world, we are surrounded by man-made chemicals. Two chemicals that need special attention are glyphosates and plastics. These substances are part of a group called “xenobiotics”, which simply...
Food Allergy Research Update: New Evidence, New Pathways and Emerging Therapies
Progress in food allergy research continues to offer cautious hope for people living with multiple IgE mediated food allergies. In February 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Xolair (omalizumab) as the first medicine to help reduce allergic reactions...
Immunotherapy: A Real Option for Allergy Relief and Long-Term Benefits
Allergies; from hay fever and asthma to food allergies, they can really disrupt daily life. Sleep, school, work, and overall well-being are all affected by uncontrolled allergies. Whilst antihistamines, nasal sprays, and avoidance measures help with symptoms, they do...
Hearty Samp & Beans
Wholesome, hearty, and budget-friendly – this traditional South Afri…
Body Health and Allergies: Moving Beyond BMI to Better Insights
Many people living with allergies ask whether their weight could be mak…
Hives research study enrolling now. Update – this study had ended
Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) is the medical term for chronic hi…
Seal the Advantage with the AFSA Seal of Approval
Imagine a mother scanning store shelves for a safe product to soothe her child’s eczema. Among countless options, she spots your brand, proudly bearing the Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA) Seal of Approval (SOA). She chooses it, trusting it will not worsen...
Crispy-Skin Herb Roast Chicken with Veggies
Free from wheat, gluten, egg, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, fish, shellfish This allergy-friendly roast is simple, nourishing, and perfect for the whole family. Keep the chicken skin on to adds flavour, helps the meat stay moist, and provides healthy fats and...
Breathe Easier, Naturally: Complementary Asthma Relief
Living with asthma in South Africa presents unique challenges, from smoky townships and seasonal pollen to urban pollution and under-resourced healthcare access. Alarmingly, South Africa ranks among the countries with one of the highest asthma death rates in the...
Anaphylaxis: A Preventable Threat That Demands Urgent Action
World Allergy Week 2025 runs from 29 June to 5 July, and this year’s global focus is loud and clear: “Anaphylaxis: A Preventable Threat” For those unfamiliar, anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It can develop within minutes of...
Cutting-Edge Gene-Editing Trial for HAE Underway in South Africa
South Africa is making history as local patients take part in a pioneering global clinical trial using CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing technology to treat hereditary angioedema (HAE)—a rare and potentially fatal genetic condition. Led by Professor Jonny Peter at UCT’s Lung...
Are Heavy Metals Contributing to the Rise in Childhood Allergies?
Allergies among children such as asthma, eczema, food sensitivities, and hay fever are on the rise, impacting up to 40% of kids in some areas. Mounting evidence points to environmental factors, including heavy metals like lead, mercury, cadmium, and aluminum, as...
Winter Warmer Dairy-Free Vegetable Soup Recipe
Winter Warmer Dairy-Free Vegetable Soup Recipe with a homemade broth alternative. This vegetable soup is delicious and nutritious for the whole family to enjoy! This diverse selection of vegetables is excellent for your gut microbiome, enhancing your immunity and...
The Link Between Vitamin D and Allergies: What Patients Should Know
Vitamin D is often known as the “sunshine vitamin” for its role in supporting bone health and helping our bodies absorb calcium. But over the last decade, researchers have uncovered another important role for vitamin D—its impact on the immune system. In particular,...
Understanding the role of the Dietitian in Food Allergies
If it’s about optimal nutrition, ask a Dietitian! Registered dietitians are food and nutrition experts with a degree from an accredited dietetics program. In South Africa, they're registered with the Health Professions Council (HPCSA), ensuring they provide...
Understanding How Food Additives Can Affect Allergies
Food additives are increasingly added to processed food – they help preserve food, enhance flavour, and improve texture. But if you or a loved one has food allergies, it’s important to understand how these additives might impact your health. A recent study explored...
Gluten-Free Mini Egg Brownies
Do you have Gluten Intolerance or Coeliac Disease but still dream of indulging in a classic brownie this Easter time? Here's a delicious gluten-free recipe just for you! Prep Time: 1 Hour Cook Time: 30 Minutes Cooling Time: 2 Hours Serving: 16 Pieces Ingredients 200 g...