Though for some, having food allergies are just hiccups, other people have severe conditions that could be detrimental to their lives. This is enough reason why one should never take allergies for granted and strive to know more about the phenomenon, what causes them and what to do just in case.
According to the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, allergies are more prevalent among children than in adults. In about 15 million Americans that has an allergy to food, 30 percent of them are kids, and cases are they are allergic to more than one food.
Having allergies can be genetic, so for parents to be soon and in the future, it is essential to know how not to pass on the allergy gene trait to your child.
Although diet restriction during pregnancy is highly recommended to avoid allergy development in their children, chances are it will be a lost case. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI), "Most recent information indicates there is no significant allergy prevention benefit to your baby if you avoid highly allergenic foods during this time."
Do not underestimate the health benefits of breast milk. According to the academy, a mother's milk strengthens her baby's immune system if breastfed for the first six months of the infant's life, reducing the risks of infection and allergy development.
It is important to always consult your doctor when giving solid food to your infant for the first time because that too could determine the possibility of allergy to your kid. "Delaying exposure to egg, dairy, peanut, tree nuts, fish and shellfish could potentially increase your infant's risk of developing a food allergy," registered dietitian Lori Zanini explained.
Having enough knowledge also is important in preventing allergies for your kids. It is important to know the first manifestation of the allergy, like the symptoms; including wheezing, swelling of the throat and face, itching, and abdominal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea.
"Currently, there is no cure for allergies or medications to prevent reactions," Zanini says. But, the negative effects of allergies can be combatted with proper meals to serve.
Zanini works with families closely; studying each case and helping the families create needed meal plans for their child with an allergy.
