Common Food Allergies

Food allergy is an abnormal response to a food triggered by your body's immune system. The allergic reaction may be mild. In rare cases it can cause a severe reaction called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of food allergy include

• Itching or swelling in your mouth
• Vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal cramps and pain
• Hives or eczema
• Tightening of the throat and trouble breathing
• Drop in blood pressure

Your health care provider may use a detailed history, elimination diet, and skin and blood tests to diagnose a food allergy.

When you have food allergies, you must be prepared to treat an accidental exposure.

In adults, the foods that most often trigger allergic reactions include fish, shellfish, peanuts, and tree nuts, such as walnuts. Problem foods for children can include eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and wheat.

Milk is a common food that many individuals have allergic reactions.  Unfortunately, milk is a product that is found in many foods, especially bakery items.  The good news, however, is that milk is relatively easy to replace.  There are a number of substitutes that can be used as an alternative when baking.

Eggs are another common item that many people have allergic reactions to. The good news is that those who have an egg allergy can use a number of different substitutes, especially for baking.

Another common food allergy that many suffer from is that of a peanut allergy.  Unfortunately, peanut allergies are known to cause the most severe reactions.  If you suffer from or if your child suffers from a peanut allergy, it is important to proceed with caution. 

Fish allergies are also somewhat common.  Fish allergies come in a number of different formats.  Some individuals only have allergic reactions to certain fishes.  It is recommended that you speak with a healthcare professional to see if special tests can be performed.  If not, it may be best to stay on the safe side and avoid all fish products.

Wheat allergies are another common allergy that many suffer from.  The good news is that there are a number of alternatives that can be used in baking.  These alternatives include rice flour and corn flour, just to name a few.

You can only prevent the symptoms of food allergy by avoiding the food. After you and your health care provider have identified the foods to which you are sensitive, you must remove them from your diet.

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