Ep. 220: Nickel Allergies In this episode, we question an issue Stacy's mom has about nickel allergy. Can an allergy to a metal cause severe systemic dermatitis? Click the picture above to be taken to iTunes If you enjoy the show, please review it in iTunes!The Paleo View (TPV), Episode 220: Nickel Allergies Intro (0:00) News and Views (0:40) Simpsons did it. As Sarah always says, what's the use of her degree and research acumen if she can't use it to help her friends? Our topic today is nickel allergies, thanks to Stacy's mom! Are nickel allergies a thing? Not topical allergies, but food allergies to nickel. (4:38) Stacy's mom, Carol, has a skin rash that has been around for years, but with no known cause. Stacy has been encouraging her to stop eating corn and nightshades Carol found an article that linked these kind of allergic reactions to nickel allergies, and they started after she wore a ring that contained nickel. Topical nickel allergy is very well established. People have reactions to nickel jewelry and such Not well established is systemic nickel allergy, the kind that could happen when you ingest it. Nickel is a trace mineral that we do need in small quantities. Helps with bones, iron absorption, DNA synthesis and gut microbiome. Affects 10-20% of the population Some get dermatitis of the hands and feet, some have whole body excema If you give people a dose of nickel, they'll react to it, but this is much more than the dietary recommendation Some small studies have done elimination diet of nickel with some success. There are things you can do to counteract nickel sensitivity. Vitamin C reduces absorption and high phytates as well, though that has its own problems. High nickel foods: Grains, beans, fish and seafoods, soy, oatmeal, nuts and almonds, milk, chocolate and canned foods. Some of these are from the processing and the growing conditions. Systemic nickel hypersensitivity: all the bad things Skin issues, GI symptoms, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, headaches, cold sores, respiratory disorders may be linked, but evidence is very scant at this point. Some nickel is used in black and red tattoo inks too. Cosmetic products and smoking as well. Nickel is an extremely common metal as well. Exposure could be from zippers or coins or keys as well. Vegetables: Spinach and lettuce and gelatin, but not well established And studies are not clear on how many people can be helped by a low nickel diet Mom needs to give up the corn. For real. Skin barrier function is helped by Vitamin A and D. Should you get a tattoo removed? Probably not. Work with a health professional to increase liver and kidney function, then reduce heavy metals in the diet generally and up the Vitamin C Outro (31:58)  Support us by shopping through links on our sidebars, please! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices