Allergies to food are on the rise. Today, more than 12 million people – roughly one in 25 Americans – are believed to be affected by one or more food allergies, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network.
A food allergy is caused by the body's immune system mistaking an ingredient in food – the protein – as harmful and creating a defense system (antibodies) to fight it. An allergic reaction occurs when the antibodies battle an "invading" food protein.
Common symptoms of a food allergy can range from a tingling sensation in the mouth, swelling of the tongue and the throat, difficulty breathing, hives, vomiting, abdominal cramps or diarrhea to a substantial drop in blood pressure or loss of consciousness. Symptoms typically appear within minutes or up to two hours after the person has eaten the food to which he or she is allergic.
Food allergies among young children are especially challenging, as children depend on adults in day care centers, schools and other settings to be educated about the nuances and dangers of food allergies until they are old enough to take responsibility for themselves.
“It is vital that parents, grandparents and caregivers to children with food allergies educate themselves about the condition, common triggers, managing medication and most importantly, real-life strategies for building a safe environment,” explains Faina Gutin, M.D., an allergy/immunology specialist at Cooper University Hospital.
An important part of that education is knowing the difference between “food intolerance” and an actual food allergy. A "food intolerance" is an adverse food-induced reaction that does not involve the immune system, such as lactose intolerance. A person with lactose intolerance lacks an enzyme that is needed to digest milk sugar. When the person eats milk products, symptoms such as gas, bloating, and abdominal pain may occur. Unlike a food allergy, this does not incite the body to create antibodies, which may cause hives, asthma, or other symptoms of an allergic reaction.
“The best thing parents can do is take control and be proactive,” advises Dr. Gutin.
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Free Seminar: Raising a Child with Food Allergies
In an effort to help parents become better informed about food allergies, Dr. Gutin is teaming up with nutritionist Janet Kirby to offer a free community lecture on raising a child with food allergies. The program will feature practical advice including recognizing symptoms and triggers, managing medication, communicating with caregivers, and building a safe environment in the home and at school.
This free program will be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2007 beginning at 7 p.m. at Cooper for Women, 1011 Main Street, Voorhees, New Jersey 08043. Light refreshments will be served, and pre-registration is required. |
To sign-up or for more information, please call Cooper for Women at 1-877-662-2273.