Allergy-Safe Family Food

Food allergies affect one in 20 children and one in 100 adults. (Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, 2008) The incidence of food allergy continues to rise.

All people with allergies should be under the supervision of an appropriately qualified medical practitioner or allergy specialist. It is important that they re-test: many children outgrow allergies. Gluten intolerance (coeliac disease) is never outgrown. Food intolerance, which does not involve the immune system, is a separate topic; it is beyond the scope of this book.

The foods that commonly trigger allergic reactions are peanuts, tree nuts (almond, brazil nut, cashew, chestnut, hazelnut, macadamia, pecan, pistachio, walnut), egg, cow’s milk, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish and sesame seed.

If someone is allergic to a specific food, when they come in contact with the protein associated with that food their body’s immune system overreacts, ie produces an allergic reaction. Even a tiny amount of an allergen (the thing that triggers the allergic response) can cause a reaction.

People with a food allergy must avoid all contact with that food. Only a doctor or allergist can diagnose food allergy.

Allergic reactions range from mild, such as a runny nose, hives, rash or stomach pains, through to serious and even life-threatening symptoms, such as swelling of the tongue and throat, breathing difficulties and collapse.

The most severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis, or an anaphylactic response. This means the symptoms are life-threatening. The respiratory system (the lungs, airways and respiratory muscles) and/or cardiovascular system (the heart and blood vessels) are affected and the whole body starts to shut down. Prompt action must be taken.

Children with severe food allergies (those who are at risk of anaphylaxis) typically carry an emergency bag or box with them; this contains their Anaphylaxis Action Plan — completed and signed by their doctor — and emergency medication, including an EpiPen (a pre-loaded adrenaline injection). The Anaphylaxis Action Plan outlines the steps to follow if an anaphylactic reaction occurs.

Order the Allergy-Safe Family Food Online and you CAN manage food allergies.

Allergy Safe - Be Allergy Aware and Be Safe!