Dietary habits and minerals intake in patients with grass pollen allergy

Abstract Specific dietary components (e.g., fatty acids and micronutrients) are crucial in food allergy; however, their exact role in the diet in grass pollen allergy needs to be better established. Since specific macro- and microminerals (trace elements) can stimulate the immune system, this study aimed to estimate the dietary habits and mineral intake in patients with allergic diseases. Anthropometric, biochemical, serological, and nutritional habits analyses were done in patients with grass pollen allergy and compared to the healthy control group. Daily food rations (DFR) were improperly balanced, and high intake of protein and fat and low carbohydrate were observed in both groups. Saturated fatty acids (SFA), phosphorus, and copper were supplied in high amounts, while mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, magnesium, and zinc were within the reference range and comparable in both analyzed groups. Insufficient calcium intake resulted in a low Ca:P ratio. A similar analysis showed higher macronutrients, SFA, sodium, magnesium, and copper intake and lower calcium and phosphorus consumption in allergic patients than in the control group. Total IgE positively correlated with platelet level and negatively with zinc intake. The diet of patients with grass pollen allergy needs to be better balanced regarding macronutrients and selected elements. Correcting and controlling the number of nutrients that increase the risk of immune system dysregulation in such patients (particularly reducing excessive SFA intake and increasing insufficient calcium intake) is advisable.