What is a Food Allergy?
A reaction by the body’s immune system to something you ate or drank is called a food allergy. These particular allergies are more common in children than they are in adults. These are also more common to those who may have other types of allergies.
Food allergies must be taken in a serious manner. Tiny amounts of food can cause a reaction if you are allergic to it, and a severe reaction can be life threatening as well as sudden.
A food allergy occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly believes that a harmless substance (a food) is harmful. In order to protect your body, the immune system creates substances called antibodies to that food.
Your body has to protect itself, so the immune system creates substances called antibodies to that food. The next time you eat that certain food, your immune system releases large amounts of chemicals to protect the body. These chemicals then trigger symptoms that can affect both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems, gastrointestinal tract, and the skin.
Tips for Managing a Peanut Allergy
Artificial nuts can also be peanuts that have been reflavored with a nut, such as pecan or walnut. Manedlonas are peanuts soaked in almond flavoring.
Arachis oil is actually peanut oil. When dining out, be aware that African, Chinese, Indonesian, Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese dises often contain peanuts or are contaminated with peanuts during the preparation process. Additionally, foods sold in bakeries and ice cream shops are often in contact with peanuts. Many brands of sunflower seeds are produced on equipment shared with peanuts.
Keep in Mind
Studies show that most allergic individuals can safely eat peanut oil-sometimes. If not sure, ask your doctor if you should avoid peanut oil if you are allergic to peanuts. Most experts recommend peanut-allergic patients avoid tree nuts as an extra precaution. Peanuts are found in many foods and candies, especially chocolate candy. Check all labels carefully. Contact the manufacturer if you have questions. Peanuts can cause severe allergic reactions. If prescribed, be sure to carry epinephrine at all times.
Tips for Managing a Wheat Allergy
Celiac disease and wheat allergy are two distinct conditions. Celiac disease, or celiac sprue, is a permanent adverse reaction to gluten. IGE-mediated response to wheat protein is what occurs in wheat-allergic people. These people need to avoid wheat only. Most children who are allergic to wheat outgrow their allergy.
Keep in Mind
Read labels carefully. At least one brand of ice cream and one of hot dogs contain wheat. It is listed on their label. Many country-style wreaths also are decorated with wheat products. Some types of imitation crabmeat contain wheat. Wheat flour is also sometimes flavored and shaped to look like beef, pork, and shrimp in Asian dishes.