Food Allergies

An allergy can be described as a malfunction of theAs with other types of allergies there is no cure for a
immune system, an exaggerated response to certainfood allergy. Some children do grow out of some food
substances. Your body mistakenly believes thatallergies as they age although allergies to peanuts, fish,
something it has touched, smelled or eaten is harmfulshellfish and nuts are often considered lifetime allergies.
to it and your body releases massive amounts ofYou or your loved one must simply avoid the food that
chemicals, such as histamine to protect itself.causes the allergy. This can be difficult, especially
It is believed that 11 million Americans suffer from foodwhen eating out in a restaurant. Depending on the
allergies. These allergies are as varied as food itself is.severity of allergy, even slight cross contamination of
Some people suffer from an allergy to one food,food products can cause reactions.
some to many. The most common food allergies areFood labeling is a very important component of
generally eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts (such asavoiding foods that trigger allergies. Since 2000 the
walnuts), fish, shellfish, soy and wheat.FDA has been presenting information on allergy risks
Symptoms of food allergies are varied and rangeand labeling requirements to manufacturers. They seek
from a tingling of the mouth to swelling of the tongueto have manufacturers change some labels to be
and throat to difficulty breathing to hives, cramps,easier to read, using plain language like "milk" on a label
diarrhea, vomiting and in some instances death.instead of "caseinate".
There are ways to help you or your loved oneIn the case of a milk or egg allergy there are
manage your food allergies. First seek the help of analternatives that can be used when cooking or baking.
allergist. Your allergist will perform a patch test toThere are many online sites dedicated to supplying
determine the exact cause of allergic reactions. Thisinformation, education and support to those with food
will be the guideline you use as you develop a dietallergies.
based around your food allergies.