Kiwi Allergies

I have talked about oral allergies in other posts and highlighted bananas, pineapples and apples.  One fruit I would never have expected to have allergic properties is the kiwi.  Introduced to the U.S. in 1962 it has become a very popular fruit.

Today over 4% of European children experience the allergy.  And it cross-reacts with many other foods and substances, including birch pollen, avocado, banana, rye grain and hazelnuts, meaning the allergens share similar properties and can react the same way in the body.  To read the full article click on Kiwi Allergy.  

Eczema can lead to Food Allergies

A recent blog on the FARE website (Food Allergy Research & Education) highlighted the story of a woman who would treat her eczema with a soothing cream made with goat's milk.  After eating goat cheese the woman experienced a severe allergic reaction.  This is the first time there was direct evidence of a food allergy occurring after exposure through the skin.  The full story can be read on the the FARE blog.

As someone who has experienced eczema I wonder if some of the creams I used to soothe it also contained substances that could cause food allergies.  For example, many creams contain almond oil which could lead to a nut allergy.

Bullying -- A Problem for Children with Food Allergies

Unlike physical disabilities food allergies are not readily apparent to those around you.  For a child with food allergies, exposure to the food one is allergic to can trigger a serious physical reaction.  The physical reaction is painful and the emotional toll is high as well. 

Unfortunately because many people do not understand food allergies they do not take them seriously.  Even worse, children with food allergies are often bullied causing emotional distress in addition to having a physical ailment.  Most schools have policies against bullying.  But, if the teacher and the student do not understand or or are unaware that a food allergy can be life threatening no action may be taken to alleviate the child with food allergies suffering.  Many publications have taken up the cause of preventing food bullying.  The New York Times wrote a particularly good article about food bullying and its consequences.
The EMPOWER program offers counseling for children with emotional distress from managing food allergies.  It is run by the Jaffe Food Allergy Institute at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Although I was never bullied in school over my allergies, I did feel out of place at times.  No one wants to be pointed out to the rest of the group as someone who has something wrong with them.  It was hard to be the person who had to limit what people could have at parties in the classroom.  It made me a much shyer and quieter person than I would have been.

Food Allergy Advocacy

As someone who has suffered from severe food allergies for most my life I am encouraged and inspired to see advocacy for food allergies is taking hold.  The most important areas to address are schools and their policies, the travel and restaurant industries recognition of food allergies and research for a cure.  There are some advocacy platforms that are making inroads and raising awareness.  

Many schools currently "accommodate" food allergies.  My grammar school experience was to sit with all the allergic kids at a separate table.  The kids who were allergic to milk brought nuts to get the protein they needed.  The kids who couldn't eat nuts drank milk.  We all felt ostracized and conspicuous.  In addition, the smell of the nuts made me feel ill.  The college I attended offered one of the most accommodating food allergy options available.  But it still felt weird going over to a special section to get my food and having to remember to order my meals in advance.   All of the accommodations helped to prevent disastrous consequences. Yet no-one has any requirement to make sure allergens are not in the school environment.  The following video highlights what happens when food allergies are not taken seriously.  It is titled Food Allergy Bullying.  It is a strong story but an example of what a lack of knowledge can do.

Airlines and restaurants are the least accommodating.  Nut allergies are life threatening.  If you are on a plane and go into anaphylactic shock there is no recourse unless you have your own Epi-pen with you.  It seems to me that if airlines can accommodate dogs, cats, oxygen, babies and the handicapped they would be more willing to work with such a life threatening allergy.  Restaurants are also not as serious about food allergies as they should be.  I once went to a Japanese steak house where they used peanut oil to fry the hibachi. The smoke from the peanut oil almost killed me.  There was no sign or indication they used peanut oil to fry the food.  Only upon entering the restaurant and smelling the smoke did I realize I was in a life threatening situation.  I find it interesting the government supports the listing of calories which are not life threatening in the short term but not potentially allergic ingredients. Today the sole responsibility for identifying what is in a product at a restaurant is the person with the allergy.

Finally, there does not seem to be a great deal of interest in finding a cure for food allergies.  Medicines to treat asthma and pollen allergies are billion dollar businesses. Xolair, a new treatment for peanut allergies seems to minimize the effects of peanuts on allergic people.  At a cost of $10,000 there must be a way for companies to make money.  The Food Allergy Research and Education Network provides funds for research and awareness. Advocacy costs money just as research does.  Food allergies are an important topic for the general public to understand.  The following video highlights some of the struggles of people who are allergic to food.

Stronger advocacy could result in stronger laws to help people with allergies.  An amendment to the Americans With Disabilities Act would greatly enhance food allergy sufferers lives.   Changes requiring schools to educate the rest of the school population about the dangers of food allergies, a requirement for restaurants to list key allergic ingredients similar to those found on food boxes and a requirement for airlines to not serve nuts if notified an allergic person is on board would not hurt business but would definitely help all allergy sufferers.

Xolair - A Solution for those with Peanut Allergies

A few months ago my allergist suggested I use Xolair to try to mitigate my peanut allergy.  I have pretty violent results when I smell, touch or eat peanuts.  Xolair is being tested to help reduce the reaction to peanut allergies.  I ended up opting out of taking Xolair because I had to work and go to school and it took three months to participate in the study.  The study results can be accessed by clicking on Xolair Study.  

The results of the study were impressive.  People with severe peanut allergies were able to tolerate much larger doses of peanuts than they had been able to in the past.  I am rethinking my decision to postpone trying Xolair.  

Protection During an Anaphylaxis

School will be beginning shortly and whether you are starting first grade, high school or college it is important to protect yourself if you have food allergies.  Two very important things to do to make sure you are protected during an anaphylactic reaction are to have a form on file at your school or place of work allowing someone to administer a dose of from your epi-pen.  Depending on how severe your reaction is you may not have the ability to do it yourself.  Allergic Living -- a magazine and website has a very helpful form to use to provide authorization for just such an event. The link to the form follows;
http://www.aaaai.org/Aaaai/media/MediaLibrary/PDF%20Documents/Libraries/Anaphylaxis-Emergency-Action-Plan.pdf

A second very important thing to know is how to administer an epi-pen shot in the event you have anaphylaxis.  Epi-pen has put together a very good video teaching you how to administer it to yourself.

Being prepared and practicing can save your life but also others lives. Warning an employer or a school about your allergies protects you in the case of an emergency.  

Make August Food Allergy Awareness Month

I think this campaign is a great idea!  It is right before the start of school and everyone who deals with children should be educated about food allergies.

The Food Allergy Research and Education Organization 

The Food Allergy Education and Research Organization has started a Twitter campaign to make August Food Allergy Awareness Month .  

Did you know?

• Fifteen million Americans have food allergies?
• Every three minutes someone ends up in the Emergency Room with a reaction from a food allergy?
• Food allergies in children have increased by 50% between 1997 and 2011.
• Food allergies now affect one in thirteen children
• There are eight foods that cause the most reactions
• milk
• peanuts
• eggs
• tree nuts
• soy
• wheat
• fish
• shellfish

With the explosion of food allergies in children and the fact there is no cure an awareness of what to do when a reaction happens is very important!  

Who Am I? And Why Do I Have These Food Allergies?

Imagine that everywhere you go you have to be careful about what you eat, what you touch and what you breathe.  To try to bring food allergies to life I thought it was time to open up about myself and what life has been like for me as a person with food allergies. Let me begin by saying I did not always have food allergies. I say that even though I was allergic to milk as a baby and had to have soy formula instead.  But I don't remember it and if you don't remember it, it doesn't count.   Prior to age of four my favorite snack was M&M Peanuts.  I am told I loved scrambled eggs too but I don't remember that either.  

My first recollection of my allergies was when I was visiting my grandparents in Sedona, Arizona with my family.  I was four years old and it was my dad's birthday.  We had an ice cream cake with either pecans or walnuts on it for decoration.  I popped one in my mouth and almost immediately I began to have trouble breathing.  No one in my family had every seen or experienced anaphylaxis before so they were not sure what to do.  My mom gave me a big dose of benedryl and sat with me through the night.  As the benedryl kicked in I had less trouble breathing and fell asleep.  

Once we arrived home my mom brought me to the doctor and explained what happened.  The doctor spoke to her tersely and told her I could have died and we should have gone right to the emergency room.  She listened and we went home.

About a year later, my dad who never had an allergy in his life, said try this pistachio.  I don't believe you are allergic.  Not knowing what a pistachio was I popped it in my mouth.  Almost immediately, my throat closed.  My mom raced to get the epi-pen.  She slammed it into my leg and we rushed to the emergency room.  There they loaded me up with benedryl and I had to take steroids for the next six days.  Needless to say, it was not worth the experiment.  

Since then I have been tested for food allergies and I am allergic to nuts, eggs, sesame, mustard and shellfish.  I avoid all them at all costs.  But as careful as I am the environment can cause me to have a reaction.  If I am sitting next to someone eating nuts I experience a severe shortness of breath.  Is it psychological or physical?  I really don't know.

The most recent and scariest episode I have experienced is last year on the day of my parents 35th wedding anniversary celebration.  I went to work out at the local gym.  While on the treadmill I experienced serious shortness of breath and began to get welts all over my body.  The gym is 5 minutes from home.  I called home and told my parents about the reaction as I was driving home.  By the time I reached the house my face was swollen, I was having trouble breathing and the welts now extended across my torso and up and down my arms.  We got in my dad's car and drove to the emergency room.  They injected me with benedryl and almost immediately the welts began to disappear and the swelling began to go down.  By that evening I was well enough to attend the party and have a good time.  We guessed that someone must have touched nuts before getting on the treadmill and I reacted either to the nut dust or the sweat from the person who just ate the nuts.

So I learned a few lessons from my experience I would like to share with you.

1. Always wipe down gym equipment before use!  Do not assume someone else did it for you.
2. Don't drive during an anaphylactic reaction.  Call 911 and wait for an ambulance.  I could have passed out while driving endangering myself and others.
3. Always carry your epi-pen.  If I had brought it with me I could have prevented the severe reaction I had.
4. Reactions can happen anywhere and at anytime.  Be prepared!

Even though I have lived with allergies all my life I still sometimes disregard my own good advice. I am hoping by exposing my own reactions if you see someone experiencing a reaction you will know to call 911 and hopefully save their life. 

Airline Policies regarding Food Allergies

My first post in June highlighted JetBlue as an accommodating airline for those with nut allergies. For those who haven't found it you can click on JetBlue Most Accommodating Airline and go directly to the blog post.

My personal experience propelled me to investigate airline policies surrounding nuts and what an airline would do to accommodate a life threatening nut allergy.   When I notified the JetBlue crew that I was allergic to nuts they accommodated me by making an announcement they would not be serving nuts on the plane and asked that passengers refrain from eating nuts.  I thought that meant that was their policy. Instead, when I began researching for this blog I found that JetBlue's policies were similar to other airlines.  Southwest seems to have accommodations similar to those of JetBlue.  In general, I found the following is what airlines are willing to do.

1. You can notify the crew you are allergic to peanuts.
2. In some cases they will create a three row buffer zone for you if they serve nuts
3. But they will not ask passengers who brought nuts with them to refrain from eating them.
4. Some airlines will allow you to board early and wipe down your own seating area to assure it is nut free.  

Allergic Living a magazine and website offers a chart in PDF form that lists individual airlines and their policies.

Here is the link to the actual site.  http://allergicliving.com/

You can access the  PDF by clicking on Airline Policies Regarding Peanut Allergies  

It is amazing to me that airlines are so cavalier about such a life threatening allergy.  It seems to me they probably do not understand the severity of the situation.  A recent film, "More than an Inconvenience" highlights the difficulties food allergy sufferers have when traveling.  I couldn't link you to it so I am providing you with a URL to watch the film.

<iframe src="//player.vimeo.com/video/65931486" width="500" height="281" webkitallowfullscreen mozallowfullscreen allowfullscreen></iframe>

Luckily, food allergy sufferers are becoming more vocal.  As airlines understand better the risks of food allergies they may be more amenable to offering accommodations for food allergy sufferers.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Is Honey a Cure for Pollen Allergies?

Many purveyors of honey at local farmers markets highlight the allergy fighting benefits of honey.  The promise is that if you eat local honey for a few weeks before going to a new location you will build up a resistance to the allergens in the local air.  Is it true I don't know -- and I don't like honey.  But I thought it would be interesting to do a little research and see what others think. 

I was surprised to see that very little information existed on the allergy prevention benefits of local honey.  I found YouTube videos promoting everything from better digestion to better taste.  But very little on the allergy benefits of local honey.  One article from ABC News on the Go by Diane Sawyer Allergy Remedies -- Fact or Fiction? notes the idea of eating honey to prevent allergies doesn't work.  According to Neil Kao, an allergist and station head for the Allergic Disease and Asthma Center simply eating local honey picked up at a farmer's market is not going to help with your oak, ragweed or juniper tree allergy.  Kao said the pollen bees pick up from flowers is heavier than the grass or tree pollen that are the main causes of springtime allergy misery.

There is a limited study noted in the same article that people who are allergic to birch pollen who ate honey with birch pollen added were able to control their allergy symptoms more than those who used mainstream medicines.

I find this interesting and may have to find a way to give honey a try. Another thing I heard is that people who have oral allergies or are allergic to fruit are allergic to birch pollen.  In another posting I will investigate that and if honey can play a role in helping people with oral allergies.

Wikipedia

Wikipedia deleted by addition to the site.  I was very disappointed to see that my comments were not accepted.  Although I am not a medically trained professional I am very experienced living with food allergies and I know my stuff.  Below is what I added to Wikipedia.  It is not missing!

Allergies, however, do result in a weakened immune system making the allergy sufferer more susceptible to other infections and viruses.  Allergy reactions tax the immune system resulting in becoming more sensitive to other allergens, becoming more sensitive to pain and easily catching whatever cold or flu is currently running its course.  The best way to avoid additional symptoms and a weakened immune system is to avoid all contact with allergens including food sensitivities.

Gluten Intolerance and Lactose Intolerance are not Allergies

Gluten and Lactose can cause many people symptoms and problems that are similar to those of food allergies.  Food allergies are an immune system reaction that occurs soon after eating a certain food.  Intolerance of gluten and lactose is a less serious condition that does not involve the immune system. More information on the differences can be found at the mayo clinic website www.mayclinic.org/foodallergy.

Although technically not an allergy gluten intolerance can be painful and uncomfortable.  It can also lead to celiac disease.  Most people know that lactose intolerance is an intolerance to milk and milk products such as cheese and ice cream.  I did not know what gluten was or what happens if it causes you a problem.  Gluten, I learned is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley.  

I read a very good article about gluten intolerance by Katrina Plyer who found out she had celiac disease and was gluten intolerant. The article can be found at www.health.usnews.com/surprisingsignsof glutenintolerance.   She notes that many of the symptoms of gluten intolerance can mimic those of an allergy.  

Symptoms can include:

• Gastrointestinal effects
• Malabsorption of vitamins
• Skin rash
• Migraines
• Joint Pain
• Lactose Intolerance
• Chronic Fatigue
• Fibromyalgia

Gastrointestinal problems are common for food allergy sufferers as are skin rashes.  It is difficult to tell whether one is suffering from an allergy or an intolerance.  

The solution for both though is to avoid an foods that cause distress.  

Living with Allergies - An Interview

I spent a lot of time deciding who I should interview.  I wanted my interview to be helpful to people with allergies.  At first I thought I'd interview a medical professional but I decided it would be more helpful to speak with someone who had lived with allergies all their life. I chose a business associate who has extensive food allergies.  I was interested in learning how she managed to be so successful with the health issues she constantly dealt with.  My interviewee is a successful Financial Advisor with over 25 years of experience. She is physically active even though she only has 25% lung capacity.  

I asked: How long have you had food allergies?

I have had food allergies since the day I was born.  My first allergy was to milk.  I had to eat soy formula.  As I got older I had very bad asthma and eczema.  I was tested for food allergies.  From both blood tests and scratch tests it was determined I was allergic to eggs, potatoes, carrots and rye.  Needless to say my family got very sick of eating rice and I couldn't have french fries!

I asked:  Were there any treatments available at the time for your food allergies?

The first thing we did was to make sure I avoided all the foods I was allergic to.  After that I received four shots a week for my allergies.  I am not sure if the shots were for food allergies or for my other allergies but I had them every week for four years growing up.

I asked: Have your allergies stayed the same or have they changed over the years?

For many years I didn't have any food allergies at all.  I thought I had outgrown them.  Then about three years ago I ate a nut and had an anaphylactic reaction.  Then I ate some crab and had the same reaction.  So as of now I can eat eggs, carrots, rye and potatoes but have to avoid shellfish and nuts.  Right now it's just walnuts and crab but I am careful with all nuts and shellfish.

I asked:  How do you operate as a successful business person and manage your allergies?

When I was young there was no such thing as an Epi-Pen.  Every reaction was life threatening.  I am very careful about what I eat.  I carry an Epi-pen, benedryl and steroids with me at all times in case I experience anaphylaxis.

I asked:  Have you every had a life threatening allergic reaction?

When I was young I ended up in the hospital several times.  With these new allergies I have also had reactions.  One time I was at a business meeting and asked if there was shellfish in the soup.  The server told me no.  It turns out there was crab in the soup and I ended up in an ambulance being rushed to the hospital!  It was embarrassing to have that happen in front of all my business colleagues.  Another time I was at an airport and ate at the salad bar.  I got on the plane and as it was taking off I began to experience an anaphylactic reaction.  I immediately loaded myself up with benedryl and steroids.  Luckily that worked.  If the reaction had been any worse I might have had to ask them to land the plane!

I asked: What advice would you give to someone about managing their food allergies?

Most important is to take your food allergies seriously.  Every new reaction seems to be more severe so avoiding anything your allergic to is the key.  Not all restaurants train the staff to take allergies seriously so if something looks suspicious don't eat it!  It is also important to take the Epi-pen and medicine with you wherever you go.  It is impossible to tell when you will get a reaction.  Also, don't be embarrassed to ask how the food is made and what's in it. People without food allergies do not always understand how serious a reaction can be.  Finally, don't let your allergies hold you back from doing the things you want to do.  I have very bad asthma but it doesn't prevent me from riding my bike, kayaking and engaging in other activities I love.  Everyone has difficulties.  But they should not hold you back!

I found this interview very inspiring and I wanted to share it on my blog.  My interviewee is a very successful Financial Advisor who manages a large group of clients and needs to be well and available to help her clients make financial decisions.  In addition, she leads an active and productive life.  She is the mother of two children, owns two homes, skis, boats and bikes.  I am hoping my life works out as well!

Pesto without Nuts! Delicious

Since pesto is made with nuts I have never had the chance to try it.  I love herbs and pasta though so I was determined to find a way to enjoy pesto.  I found this recipe on Epicurious.com and tried it.  Its great!  I happen to love cilantro so the cilantro in the recipe works for me but many people are not fans of cilantro.  You can substitute parsley if you prefer the taste of that herb.  Or if you love arugula like I do you can use that or spinach.  You can substitute sunflower seeds if you're not a fan of pumpkins seeds.  Pesto needs the crunch of a seed or nut and some kind of green leafy herb or vegetable.  I sometimes add parmesan cheese as well.  And pesto is not just for pasta.  You can put it on sandwiches, chicken and fish.  Because I am allergic to eggs I also use it to replace mayonnaise on a sandwich.  It has tons of uses and is super delicious!

 

Pumpkin Seed Pesto

Makes about 21/2 cups                                  Active time 20 minutes

Ingredients

     

• 6 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 cups unsalted hulled (green) pumpkin seeds
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup coarsely chopped fresh cilantro
• 4 scallions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, or to taste

Preparation

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large heavy skillet over moderate heat until hot but not smoking, then cook pumpkin seeds with salt and pepper to taste, stirring constantly, until seeds are puffed and beginning to pop (some will brown, but do not let all of them), about 4 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring, 1 minute. Transfer to a plate and cool completely.
Pulse seed mixture in a food processor with water, cilantro, scallions, and remaining 4 tablespoons oil until mixture forms a coarse paste (not finely ground). Transfer to a bowl and stir in lemon juice and salt and pepper to taste.

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Pumpkin-Seed-Pesto-104569

Milk Allergies

Milk allergies are very common and can be difficult to detect.  Sometimes milk allergies and lactose intolerance are confused with each other.  If you have a milk allergy your immune system is compromised.  This is not the case with lactose intolerance.  If you suspect you have a milk allergy then it is important to get tested.  Testing can confirm a milk allergy.

Milk allergies can have some symptoms similar to lactose intolerance.
These symptoms include:

• bloating
• gas
• diarrhea

Milk allergies have other symptoms:

• Hives
• Wheezing
• Vomiting
• Loose stools, which may contain blood
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal cramps
• Coughing or wheezing
• Runny nose
• Watery eyes
• Itchy skin rash, often around the mouth
• Colic, in babies

Milk is something that everyone drinks and is difficult to find a substitute for.  I am a big milk drinker.  I am glad it is not one of my food allergies.

How Anaphylaxis Happens.

How Anaphylaxis Happens

Better than the pictures I posted earlier this video shows you exactly how an anaphylactic reaction happens and what to do about it.  It shows how dangerous a reaction can be and also how important it is to make sure you have an epi-pen with you if you have allergies.   

If you have asthma or allergies carry your epi-pen, get yourself tested by a professional and know the signs of an allergic reaction.

Allergic to Fruits and Vegetables?

Who would think that delicious fruit or vegetables could cause anyone any trouble?

I listed numerous food allergies but found out about a new one -- one I do not have.  Allergies to some fruits and vegetables.  I was sitting with my cousin and found out she was allergic to pineapple and experienced something similar to anaphylaxis when she ate it.  I was surprised.  I had heard of oral allergies before from other members of my family.  The allergy was just a tickle in the throat once a raw piece of fruit or vegetable was eaten.  The less ripe the fruit or vegetable the stronger the reaction. I did some research and found a good article explaining the effect fruits and vegetables can have on someone who has an allergy.  Below is the link to the article.

    http://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2007/12/11/a-pesky-allergy-to-fruit-and-vegetables. 

Best Chocolate Cake Recipe

One of my favorite things to do is cook.  This recipe is a family favorite.  Although I have never eaten a cake made with eggs, friends and family find this cake to be even more delicious.  It is moist and tasty.  You can make this cake in two 8 inch pans as well for a double layer cake.

 

Eggless Chocolate Cake

Makes 1 - 9x13 inch cake pan         

Makes servings USMetricAdjust Recipe (Help)

• 4 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
• 3 cups white sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup vegetable oil

• 3 cups water
• 3 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons vanilla extract

  

                                                                   

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Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C), grease and flour a 9x13 inch pan.
2. In a large bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, soda and salt. Add sugar and mix together.
3. Add oil, water and vanilla and mix thoroughly.
4. Pour into a 9x13 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for 1 hour or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.

Yummy!  Rather than focusing on the negatives of allergies I am going to spend time helping you enjoy food.  Cooking can be fun and eating is even more fun!

Examples of Allergic Reactions

Anaphylaxis can look as bad as it feels.  Recognizing it is important because you have about five minutes before you can die.  I have talked about carrying an epi-pen because reaction time needs to be so short.

This image helps to explain anaphylaxis.



The following images from Google Image can be disturbing but show you how severe reactions manifest themselves.



And not to be gross but here it is



Anaphylaxis is often accompanied by swollen lips and eyes as well as hives.  Most important however is that your throat is closing.

Am I having an Allergic Reaction?

In a recent post I listed the signs of an allergic reaction.  Each food I eat gives me a different reaction so I am never sure if I am having an allergic reaction or something else is going on.

I spend a lot time talking about anaphylaxis in this blog.  I get an anaphylactic reaction from eating nuts.  Its pretty clear when then happens and I know what to do.  I get other reactions from other foods.  If I eat eggs I get diarrhea but if I touch an egg my hands and face swell.  If I touch shellfish I get hives up and down my arms.  I have never tried to eat shellfish since touching it causes me so many problems.  Sesame and mustard make my stomach hurt.  It's very difficult to identify those two items in food so it can happen at any time.

I also have asthma but I have no idea if it's from food.  It's difficult to determine if you are allergic, got food poisoning or you have a stomach flu.  If you are allergic to food make sure that you carefully avoid whatever made you sick and don't eat again until you are either supervised by a physician or are sure you are not allergic.  You could be putting your life in jeopardy!

The Sixteen Best Allergy Blogs of 2014

As part of making sure that as much information as possible is available I found a site that lists the best Allergy Blogs.  You can get the detail from www.healthline.com but here's a list that might make your searching a little easier.  Each website has its own point of view.  Some are written by non profit organizations that focus on food allergies but most are written by moms who have children with food allergies. 

1. The Nut-Free Mom -- www.nut-freemom.BlogSpot.com
2. It's An Itchy Little World -- www.itchylittleworld.com
3. Onespot Allergy -- www.blog.onespotallergy.com
4. Lexie's Kitchen -- www.lexieskitchen.com
5. Allergy Foodie -- www.allergyfoodie.com
6. Cybele Pascal -- www.cybelepascal.com
7. Learning to Eat Allergy Free -- www.learningtoeatallergyfree.com
8. Allergy Home -- www.allergyhome.org
9. The FARE blog -- www.blog.foodallergy.org
10. Jeannette's Healthy Living Blog -- www.jeannetteshealthyliving.com
11. Kid's With Food Allergies Blog -- www.community.kidswithfoodallergies.org
12. Food Allergy Mama -- www.foodallergymama.com
13. The Allergy Eats -- www.allergyeats.com
14. Food Allergy Buzz -- www.foodallergybuzz.com
15. Food Allergy Queen -- www.foodallergyqueen.com
16. Allergic Child -- www.home.allergicchild.com

Living with food allergies is a journey.  The majority of these sites take a personal point of view about a child living with allergies.  Solutions on the sites offer homeopathic solutions, recipes free of allergic foods and life experiences with children during travels and in restaurants.  Since these sites are expert only in the sense the bloggers live with people with food allergies you need to be careful to do your own research.  Look at these blogs as a description of a journey rather than expert advice.

Symptoms and Signs of an Allergic Reaction

It is not always clear when you have an allergic reaction.  Different allergies can cause different reactions.  The most dangerous allergic reaction is anaphylaxis.  My experience with anaphylaxis involves eating nuts.  For me anaphylaxis means my throat feels like it is closing and I can't breathe.  If it goes on for too long you can go into shock. 

Other reactions that aren't quite as dangerous but can be very uncomfortable are

• Skin Irritation
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blistering
• Weeping
• Crusting,
• Rash
• Hives
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Tightness
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Eye irritation
• Bloodshot eyes
• Itching
• Swelling
• Watering
• Stomach issues
• Pain
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Nasal Issues
• Stuffy nose
• Runny nose
• Sneezing
• Head Issues
• Swelling of the face, neck, eyelids, lips, tongue or throat 
• Hoarseness of the voice
• Headache

Sometimes it's hard to tell whether your reaction is a food allergy, a pollen allergy or an allergic reaction to a cat or a dog.  It is important to be diligent and notice when the reactions occur.  I have found with food allergies the more often they happen the more severe they are.

Testing for food allergies

Determining what foods you are allergic to or if you even have a food allergy can be difficult.  If you have severe reactions to certain foods it is pretty easy to say you are allergic and you should avoid those foods.  But if you have gastrointestinal problems or rashes from food allergies it is difficult to determine if you have a food allergy or an intestinal problem.  This is why testing is so important.  The most common way to test for food allergies is a skin prick test.  A skin prick test can be problematic if you have severe reactions.  Generally, doctors require you stay in the doctor's office for a few hours to make sure a severe reaction does not occur.  If food reactions are severe another possibility is a blood test.  I have found blood tests can provide both false negatives and false positives.  If a skin test is not a possibility a trial elimination diet is the best way to prove your allergies.  Start out by eliminating all foods you think you may be allergic to.  Then add foods one by one to your diet to determine if there is an allergic reaction.  Your body is the best test for allergic reactions.  Remember however, if you have experienced anaphylaxis you should not add those foods.  You are allergic and testing will only bring on a more serious reaction.

Wikipedia Entry

Wikipedia gives a very good description of food allergies and the resulting symptoms and side effects.  Because there is no cure for allergies there are often additional complications for the allergy sufferer.  I added a paragraph to Wikipedia highlighting some of the symptoms and side effects allergy sufferers have to deal with when confronting allergies on a daily basis.

Below is the original Wikipedia entry and in block format is my addition.  You can view it on Wikipedia at  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foodallergy.

A food allergy is an adverse immune response to a food protein.^[1][2][3]

They are distinct from other adverse responses to food, such as food intolerance, pharmacological reactions, and toxin-mediated reactions.^[4]

The protein in the food is the most common allergic component. These kinds of allergies occur when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a protein as harmful. Some proteins or fragments of proteins are resistant to digestion and those that are not broken down in the digestive process are tagged by the Immunoglobulin E (IgE). These tags fool the immune system into thinking that the protein is an invader. The immune system, thinking the organism (the individual) is under attack, sends white blood cells to attack, and that triggers an allergic reaction. These reactions can range from mild to severe. Allergic responses include dermatitis, gastrointestinal and respiratory distress, including such life-threatening anaphylactic responses as biphasic anaphylaxis and vasodilation; these require immediate emergency intervention. Individuals with protein allergies commonly avoid contact with the problematic protein. Some medications may prevent, minimize or treat protein allergy reactions. There is no cure. 

Complications from allergies can be frightening.  It is important to be conscious of what you are eating at all times because once you have an allergic reaction you will need to go through a recovery process to feel better.  With anaphylaxis that process could take days as most emergency rooms administer steroids to minimize the reaction.  With less violent reactions you will still not feel well for a few days.  During that time your immune system is compromised and more susceptible to other infections and illnesses.  I added the following to Wikipedia.

Allergies, however, do result in a weakened immune system making the allergy sufferer more susceptible to other infections and viruses.  Allergy reactions tax the immune system resulting in becoming more sensitive to other allergens, becoming more sensitive to pain and easily catching whatever cold or flu is currently running its course.  The best way to avoid additional symptoms and a weakened immune system is to avoid all contact with allergens including food sensitivities.



Restaurants - Dangerous for those with food allergies!

Going out to eat can be the most difficult time for people with food allergies.  The most problematic places are Asian restaurants, fast food restaurants cooking with peanut oil, buffets and large sit down dinners such as those at conventions or weddings.  First of all, not everyone is allergic to the same things.  So institutions cannot eliminate everything allergy sufferers are allergic to.  For example, I am allergic to mustard.  Mustard is a common ingredient in many recipes adding flavor to many restaurant foods.  When cooking at home it is easy to eliminate and hard to notice the difference in flavor.  Identifying mustard as an ingredient is also difficult to determine when dining out.  Most restaurant servers are versed in dairy and nut allergies but often do not have any knowledge of whether mustard was used in the food.  Examples where mustard can be found are salad dressings and crust on fish and lamb.  Eggs can also be difficult to identify.  Most cakes, batter for fried food, binding for meatballs and crab cakes and washes on pastry are made with eggs.  The flavor of the egg is masked by the other ingredients in the menu.  Servers often do not know if eggs are in the offering. It is important if you suffer from food allergies to be very diligent about finding out what ingredients are in the food offered.

I believe many restaurants don't take food allergies seriously.  Restaurant managers often do not know what is in the recipes that make up the food.  Without knowledge of the ingredients servers cannot be trained.  A well trained server can mean the difference between a good evening and a horrible one.  Servers, even when educated, often do not understand the risks of food allergies.  So they can be very cavalier when you ask them about food ingredients.  They often believe it is just preference and you are making their jobs more difficult.  I think you should insist that the server provides you with the ingredients.  If you are not satisfied, leave the restaurant.  It is not worth it. 

Best Treatments for Anaphylaxis EPI Pen vs. Auvi-Q

For years people with allergies had little recourse once they had an allergic reaction.  As a child I was rushed to the emergency room with severe allergic reactions. The doctors pumped me full of Benedryl and steroids to help me breathe.  Once my anaphylaxis was identified I was prescribed an Epi-pen.  It is a large pen filled with epinephrine providing immediate relief for anaphylaxis giving the sufferer enough time to get to the emergency room.  When I was young, the school, my mother and anyone who took care of me carried one.  As I got older and was responsible for my own safety I carried one as well.  The size of the epi-pen was cumbersome.  Often I would not bring it with me because there was nowhere to put it.  It was too big to carry in your pocket.  So instead I took the chance nothing would happen to me.

Recently, a new pen has become available.  It is the auvi-q (pictured above).  It is smaller than a pack of cards and has a voice designed to talk you through administering the epinephrine to yourself.  It fits conveniently in your pocket allowing you to take it anywhere.  The link to the website is www.auvi-q.com.  It is a very positive change for individuals who must always be vigilant about food allergies. 

Airline travel JetBlue the most accommodating

The most difficult part of food allergies is you never know when an ingredient you are allergic to will pop up in a recipe or restaurant.  Asking every person you visit or restaurant you go to what ingredients are in the food can be difficult and embarrassing.  People without food allergies do not take them seriously or consider them life threatening.  So often I end up eating before I go out to make sure that I can identify what I am eating.  Air travel can be the most frustrating.  Airlines regularly serve nuts as an snack.  As someone who becomes ill just from the scent of nuts I have great trepidation once the snacks begin to be served.  JetBlue will not serve nuts if you let them know when you board that you have a nut allergy.  I appreciate the service because it takes all the anxiety and risk out of air travel.  Thus my first recommendation is to fly JetBlue if you have food allergies.

Allergies What Happens? What Kinds?

Allergies can start at any time.  I am from a family of allergic people.  In particular, food allergies have played a major role in my life.  At three, I happily ate peanuts, eggs and many other foods.  At four, I went into anaphylactic shock from eating a nut.  Since then I have found out through experience I am allergic to eggs, mustard, shellfish, sesame and nuts.  Each allergy has a unique reaction.  For example, nuts cause anaphylaxis which is a swelling of the throat that causes one not to be able to breathe. 

Having lived with food allergies most of my life the goal of this blog is to educate people who are struggling with allergies by providing recipes, information about restaurants and ways to make life easier.  It is also a goal of this blog to educate people who don’t understand how devastating an allergic reaction can be.  If you come from a place where you have never seen a severe allergic reaction you may not believe it is possible.  But it is.  If someone tells you they have an allergy to any food. PAY ATTENTION.  It could be a matter of life and death.