According to NutritionMD, a food allergy occurs when the body's immune system produces a reaction to a substance in a food. Antibodies then react to the food substance and cause symptoms like diarrhea, headaches, hives and bloating. In serious cases, allergic reactions can cause trouble breathing and may be life-threatening. In the United States, approximately 4 to 8 percent of children and 2 percent of adults have food allergies, according to Virginia Cooperative Extension. With a little effort and planning, food allergies can be manageable and minimally impact your life.
Step 1
Read all the labels on foods you buy in the supermarket. The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network says that you should read the labels each time you go food shopping and should not assume that the food labels stay the same. They may be made differently over time, so checking food labels constantly is important.
Step 2
Substitute foods for other foods you are allergic to when cooking. For instance, if a recipe calls for milk, water or fruit juice can be substituted. Rice flour can be substituted for wheat flour, and yeast can replace eggs, says the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network.
Step 3
Inform friends and family members about your food allergies and what can happen if you ingest certain foods. If they are aware of the consequences of you consuming these foods and what foods you need to avoid, they can better prepare meals for you and better understand your dietary needs.
Step 4
Ask the waiter or cook about ingredients used in dishes and how the food is prepared when you eat in restaurants. According to the Virginia Cooperative Extension, knowing whether there is a possibility of cross-contamination during cooking can help you make safer food choices.
Tips and Warnings
- It may be beneficial to carry around an epi-pen in case of an allergic reaction. Talk to your health-care provider about steps you can take to ensure your safety.
- If you start to experience symptoms of an allergic reaction after eating food, tell someone immediately or go to the emergency room to get help as soon as possible.
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