Researchers have identified the mechanism that explains why some people experience abdominal pain when they eat certain foods. Gastroenterologists at KU Leuven University in Belgium have revealed a mechanism that connects certain foods with activation of the cells that release histamine (mast cells), and subsequent pain and discomfort. When food antigens associated with IBS (gluten, wheat, soy and cow milk) were injected into the intestine wall of 12 IBS patients, they produced localised immune reactions. Says the research, “Knowing the mechanism that leads to mast cell activation is crucial, and will lead to novel therapies for these patients.”