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STEP ONE
An individual first consumes a food allergen, defined as a substance that causes an allergic reaction -
STEP TWO
When an individual eats the allergen, the body creates an antibody, defined as a protein that detects harmful substances. -
STEP THREE
This antibody attatches itself to cells found in tissues all over the body in order to prepare the body in case that specific allergen enters the body again. -
STEP FOUR
The allergen binds to the antibodies and sends out signals to the body to release large amounts of histamine when the food allergen enters the body again -
STEP FIVE
The histamine causes irritation and swelling in parts of the body. -
STEP SIX
The result of this irritation varies from person to person. Such reactions include the formation of mild hives, shortness of breath, or anaphylaxis.