ABSTRACT
Allergies and intolerances are abnormal reactions associated with natural substances which are harmless to most individuals. Avoidance of cereal allergens is virtually impossible. Cereal grains contribute about half the world’s supply of dietary proteins and more than half of our energy needs. Pollens are the most important cause of inhalant allergies due to cereals. Furthermore, inhalable particles are produced when cereals are harvested, transported, and processed. Schizophrenia is a psychosis characterized by a loss of contact with reality. It is accompanied by delusions, hallucinations, disturbances in thinking and communication, and deteriorating social functioning. Some of the alleged intolerances to cereal have yet to be established as valid. Nevertheless, further investigation is important to help the minority of intolerant individuals and also to indirectly learn more about the chemistry and biology of cereal grains. Knowledge of the taxonomic relationship between cereals can be valuable in assessing likely cross-reactivities between cereal allergens.
