There has been a rise in the occurrence of food allergies in children. This has necessitated the need for effective allergy management strategies to prevent severe allergic reactions. The first step lies in understanding the different aspects of food allergies in children. This will enable parents and caregivers to formulate and implement practical coping mechanisms that will enable the child to live a full and healthy life. This guide contains vital information on how to spot food allergies and what can be done to avoid debilitating allergic reactions in kids.
Childhood food allergies are common. They occur when the child’s immune system starts to attack the body with antibodies in response to some specific foods, believing them to be harmful. This causes histamines, along with other chemicals, to be released, which results in symptoms like itching, asthma, hives, etc. It is estimated that one in every 13 children has a food allergy, and up to 40% of these kids have an adverse reaction. It can be confusing and nerve-wracking for a parent to be in this situation, but early detection and intervention are crucial to avoid potentially life-threatening situations.
The reaction to the presence of allergens in food could either be instantaneous or delayed. For children, allergic food consumption could lead to serious health issues. Here are some signs that need to be watched out for if you suspect your child has food allergies:
● Sudden itching
● Hives or rashes
● Swelling in the lips, throat, or tongue
● Vomiting
● Difficulty swallowing
● Breathing trouble or wheezing
If your child exhibits any of these signs, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional immediately.
The identification of the allergen is vital in order to formulate the optimal diet plan for children with food allergies. There are many types of food allergies, with each being distinctive. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types of food allergies seen in kids today:
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Peanut allergy is one of the most common types of childhood food allergy. This lifelong allergy could result in potentially life-threatening reactions, so extreme caution is advised for those suffering from peanut allergies.
Milk allergies are often seen in infants and young kids. This can lead to the occurrence of skin, respiratory and digestive issues.
Some kids are allergic to eggs, which can cause minor skin problems and anaphylaxis.
Cashews, walnuts and almonds are just a few of the tree nuts that can trigger severe reactions in kids with this allergy, and the symptoms can be quite severe.
Wheat allergies can cause stomach pain, skin issues, or, in some rare cases, lead to anaphylaxis. Wheat allergy is not the same as Celiac Disease.
Soy is a common ingredient that can be found in some infant formula and processed foods. It can trigger skin problems or tummy problems in children.
Some children are allergic to certain varieties of fish, like mackerel and shellfish. Fish allergies could lead to severe reactions and may even persist into adulthood.
Once you have determined the food allergen, management becomes very important, as there is no child food allergy treatment. The following strategies can help you protect your child from allergic reactions:
● Remove allergic foods from the child’s diet.
● Knowledge is power. Tell everyone who is involved in your child’s life, such as grandparents, teachers and others, about the specific food that causes allergic symptoms.
● If your child has life-threatening reactions to specific foods, be ready with emergency medicines to counter the reactions.
Long-term Side Effects of Food Allergies
Beyond the immediate signs, symptoms and reactions, there are some potential long-term effects of food allergies. These effects can range from physical to psychological. Some of the common effects are:
● Nutritional Gaps
Removing specific foods from the diet can lead to dietary deficiencies. Consult a dietitian to bridge the gaps and plan meals that avoid allergens but ensure a healthy diet.
● Emotional Impact
Food allergies are emotionally draining for kids, especially in social settings where tempting food is served. It may seem unfair to them when they are restricted from eating such food due to the presence of allergens.
● Cross-contamination
When eating outside, there is often a risk of cross-contamination. This occurs when allergens come into contact with your child’s food, often unintentionally. It is best to be open about the child’s allergies with everyone handling the food.
Food intolerance and food allergy are used interchangeably, as they are thought to be the same. However, these are two different things, with food intolerance being more common than a food allergy. The main difference between food allergies and food intolerance lies in the body’s response. In food allergies, the immune system produces antibodies to combat specific foods, unlike in food intolerance, where this immune response is absent. So that means that in food intolerance, the symptoms are less severe, and the child is not at risk of anaphylaxis. Food intolerance can manifest as digestive discomfort, including heartburn, stomach pain, diarrhea, bloating, and even headaches after consuming certain foods.
The common causes of food intolerance are:
● Food additive sensitivity
● Irritable bowel syndrome
● Lack of an enzyme that digests that food
While many think that food allergies are a lifelong condition, this is not necessarily true. Children can outgrow some types of food allergies. A few studies have shown that about 80% of children outgrow wheat allergy, while about 79% outgrow milk allergy, and nearly 68% outgrow their allergy to eggs. However, peanut allergy is one type of food allergy children are not likely to outgrow.
Allergy testing is one way to determine allergies to specific foods. It can be in the form of blood tests or skin prick tests, and it can accurately determine what foods your child is allergic to. Parents often feel a strong urge to confirm their child’s food allergy through testing. While allergy tests can provide valuable information, they’re not definitive and may not uncover all allergens.
Experts suggest that controlled exposure is the most reliable method. If a child is given a specific allergic food and has no symptoms, then the child is not allergic to it. However, even if there is a mild reaction, the child should be evaluated. Experts recommend that parents start introducing allergic foods when the baby is between 4 and 6 months of age.
Food allergies in children can be severe, but with more knowledge about identifying and managing them effectively, you can support your child in this journey. It is not recommended to avoid common foods like milk, peanuts, and eggs unnecessarily due to potential allergies. If your child shows signs of a food allergy, consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and dietary recommendations. This will ensure your child gets optimal nutrition despite the dietary restrictions.
Food allergies can be managed better by sticking to a dietary plan that avoids the food the child is allergic to.
It is hard to determine exactly when a child will outgrow a food allergy. Usually, some food allergies start to subside when the children enter their late teens. However, it needs to be noted that some food allergies, like peanut allergies, could last a lifetime.
No. There is no proven treatment yet for food allergies.
Following a few simple strategies can minimise a child’s risk of food allergy reactions, especially during food preparation. Wash hands after handling any allergic food before preparing the child’s food. Also, it might be best to use different utensils to prepare the child’s meal so as to avoid cross-contamination.
