A true food allergy can result in a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening, develops fast, generally beginning with itching and swelling of the mouth, tongue and throat, which quickly progresses to rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing and possible loss of consciousness and death. Children are more prone to developing a true food allergy than adults, but Dr. Adrian Morris, an allergist practicing in London, England, says they are also more likely to outgrow it by age 10. Adults typically remain allergic to triggering foods for life. Nutritional therapy for severe food allergies centers on avoiding the offending foods. Consult your doctor for the best nutritional plan for your particular food allergy.
Determining the Food Allergen
The only sure therapy for a severe food allergy is to avoid the offending food. However, the first time you experience allergic symptoms, you may not know which food is the culprit. A severe allergic reaction can certainly be triggered by ingesting the food, but it can also occur through touch, and in the case of a severe peanut allergy, simply by breathing in peanut dust. It's imperative for you to know exactly which food you are allergic to, so inform your physician immediately if you experience a severe allergic reaction to any foods.
Allergen Avoidance and Cross-Reactivity
Once you determine which food triggers a severe allergic reaction, avoid that food completely, along with other products containing it. Read every package label carefully and scrutinize the ingredient list. Don't confine your efforts to food package labels, search every product label thoroughly. Food derivatives capable of causing allergic reactions are also found in non-food products such as makeup, shampoos and skincare products.
Also, beware of ingesting similar foods that cross-react and can also cause a severe allergic reaction. If you are allergic to peanuts, ask your doctor before eating other types of nuts. If you are allergic to lobster, avoid eating other types of shellfish, including shrimp, crayfish, conch and crab.
Subsitutes
The only true nutritional therapy for any severe allergic reaction is complete avoidance of that food because even minute amounts can trigger anaphylaxis. However, there are foods you can eat as substitutes. If you are allergic to milk proteins, the American Dietetic Association suggests trying soy milk or almond milk instead. Have soy cheese, soy yogurt and soy sour cream in place of those products made with milk. Get your nutrients from natural whole food sources, such as lean meat, poultry, fish, fresh vegetables and fruits, rice, whole grains and nuts -- if you aren't allergic -- because processed foods can contain hidden sources of milk.
Wheat Allergy
Avoid eating or using any products containing wheat if you have a severe wheat allergy. The American Dietetic Association lists safe grains and cereals to include corn, barley, rye, rice, oats, soy, quinoa, buckwheat, arrowroot, potato and tapioca. Choose whole foods to round out your nutritional needs, such as fresh eggs, lean meats, fish, poultry, fresh fruits and vegetables. Nuts and dairy products are allowed, as long as you aren't allergic, so add plain milk, cheese, yogurt and cottage cheese.
References
- Allergy Clinic UK: Dr. Adrian Morris -- Common Food Allergies
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases: What is an Allergic Reaction to Food?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Anaphylaxis
- CNN: Food Allergy
- American Dietetic Association: Milk Allergy Nutrition Therapy
- American Dietetic Association: Wheat Allergy Nutrition Therapy
