We’re learning more about the food we eat, which leads more people to realize they have food allergies. And understanding them can make a big difference in how well you manage them.
Here are six really important things to know about food allergies.
The Most Common Allergies
Here’s something that may surprise you: only eight foods are responsible for almost 90% of all food allergies. The primary culprits are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, and wheat.
Knowing these common allergens can help you be more vigilant when reading food labels or eating out. It can also help you narrow things down if you’re trying to determine if you’re experiencing food allergies.
No Two People Have the Same Allergy Experience
You’ll probably research food allergies and symptoms if you suspect you might have them, but that’s not always a good way to know. While one person might experience mild itching after eating peanuts, another might go into anaphylactic shock.
It’s super important to know your specific symptoms and triggers. Keeping a food diary where you detail your reactions to everything you eat can help.
You’ll Want a Diagnosis
Diagnosis is key for properly managing food allergies. Skin prick tests, blood tests, and oral food challenges are common methods used by allergists. Once they have the information they need, they can diagnose you and help you develop a treatment plan or tell you what foods to avoid.
Without a proper diagnosis, you won’t really know where the issue lies, and you might be missing the problem entirely.
Be Careful of Cross-Contamination
Cross-contamination happens when an allergen accidentally gets into a food item that shouldn’t contain it. This can occur during food preparation, cooking, or serving. It’s challenging to address this in a restaurant setting, but you can at least avoid it when cooking at home. Remember to use separate cooking utensils or surfaces if you’re cooking at home for someone with food allergies.
At restaurants, it’s at least helpful to let your server know so they can be honest with you about the chances of cross-contamination. It’s still a bit of a shot in the dark, but one worth taking so you aren’t uncomfortable or put yourself in an unsafe situation.
Be Prepared
Always being prepared for an allergic reaction is vital. Carrying an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen) can be literally life-saving.
Even if you don’t need more drastic measures, having an emergency preparedness plan in place can help you prevent an unnecessary trip to the hospital. It’s also important to share your plan with people you spend the most time with like family, friends, and co-workers.
Keep Yourself Informed
The field of food allergy research is continually evolving. Scientists are studying new ways to prevent and treat food allergies, including immunotherapy and vaccine development.
If you’re curious, check to see if there are clinical trials in your area you can participate in. Otherwise, check online for practical tips for avoiding allergic reactions and managing them whenever they do happen.
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Inflammation occurs when your body reacts to foreign substances. While certain anti-inflammatory drugs can help eliminate inflammation, a diet change can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Here are six anti-inflammatory foods to help reduce knee, hip, and back pain.
6 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Your Knee, Hip & Back Pain
Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
Refrigeration prevents spoilage and may extend the shelf life of common foods and other perishable items. While we may innocently store some foods in the refrigerator, you may be surprised that you shouldn’t store all of them, as this may affect their nutritional value, taste, and texture.
Although refrigeration can help preserve certain foods, some items shouldn’t be refrigerated to maintain flavor and freshness. Avoiding these foods can ensure your food stays nutritious, fresh, and flavorful.
Here are 15 food items experts warn people never to refrigerate for optimal flavor and freshness.
Experts Warn People to Never Refrigerate These 15 Food Items
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