In the winter of 2012 I found out I have an IGA deficiency. Yes, after years and years of doctors and even visits to the Mayo Clinic (who didn’t find this), I went to a new doctor in NYC who came across this mild genetic immunodeficiency. Not a big deal! It just means that I lack Immunoglobulin A (IGA), a type of antibody that protects against infections in my digestive tract (gut) and sinuses – which is why I always have belly aches and sinus pressure. It’s the most common amongst primary antibody deficiencies so I’m not anything special for having this – many of us have it and don’t even know it. Crazy, right?
It’s said that 1 in 333 people have this, which makes it relatively common. An IGA deficiency means I have an inherited inability to produce Immunoglobulin A (IGA) – which is a part of my body’s defenses against infection at the body’s surfaces (mainly surfaces of digestive system and respiratory system), which as a result means that bacteria in these locations are more likely to cause disease.
This all makes sense and explains why I often have stomach infections from bacteria in food, dirty hands, etc. I don’t do any treatment for this; however I have learned from my Integrative M.D., Dr. Susan Blum in Westchester, NY, that I can take a supplement called IGG 2000 DF, which is a proprietary immunoglobulin concentrate made by Xymogen EP (Exclusively Patented) or I can consume protein powders made from whey (a form of dairy), which also helps with IGA. Since whey (dairy) bothers my stomach I am unable to eat these protein powders; therefore I take the IGG 2000 DF every day.
I’ve met many people who have an IGA deficiency and who all live healthy lives, have healthy children and don’t get troubled by it. So, if you do have an IGA deficiency it’s important to work with your Integrative M.D. and be cautious of bacteria that you put into your mouth (digestive) and that you breathe in (environment).
It is essential to work with a nutritionist and an Integrative M.D. because I am sharing general information that is not intended to be medical advice. This information is only given for informational purposes.
If you are low in IgA and supplement with IGG, does your body convert the IGG’s in to IgA antibodies?
Did the supplement end up helping your immunity?
Hi Shannon! Yes, this supplement and working with Dr. Blum helped me a lot. You can see more of my recommended supplements here: https://thehealthyapple.com/amies-high-quality-supplement-shop/
I have low IGA and get recurrent meningitis. I pretty sure the low IGA is the cause of the meningitis. Do you think taking the IGG 2000 DF would be a good fit for me. I eat dairy but not gluten or any other grains.
Hi Shawn! Unfortunately, we’re not able to answer medical questions, but your alternative medicine doctor should be able to advise.
I also have low IgA and although I don’t eat gluten and avoid dairy I often have infections in my mouth, belly and sinus aches and frequent stools. Have you found something that helps? What’s was the root cause for you? I have had problems with a dead tooth, had to take it out. Now I am in a dilemma with another tooth whether my body will be able to tolerate another root canaling or should I take it out? I wonder how someone with low IgA would react to a dental implant
Hi Marta – thanks for reaching out. Please contact us at hello@amievalpone.com and we’d be happy to work with you!
Has the IGG 2000 helped you increase your immunity and avoid stomach infections and does it raise IGA levels?
Hi Michele,
Thanks for your question. No it did not help. I had to find the root cause and the supplement didn’t help.
Can a child have fluoride varnish at their regular dental. check ups?
I highly suggest you look at the effects of fluoride and work with an alternative dentist! xx
I think that vitamin A, colostrum and saccharomyces boulardii all helped with IGA.
That’s amazing Kim! So happy to hear this!
good
please tell me any treatment of Less of immunity