Food Allergy: Avoidance, Substitution and Emergency Preparation

Avoidance is the core

Foods confirmed as allergens must be strictly avoided, including "hidden sources": sauces, processed foods, takeaway and cross-contamination at group meals. When buying pre-packaged food, get into the habit of reading the ingredient list, and watch for wording that may mean an allergen is present, such as "lecithin" or "plant protein".

Avoidance does not mean poor nutrition

Every common allergenic food has ways to replace its nutrients (for example, people with cow's milk allergy need to make sure they get enough calcium, and people with egg allergy need to pay attention to protein intake). If needed, ask a nutrition department to help plan substitutions. The scope of food avoidance should be decided by a doctor; widening it without reason can harm health instead.

Emergency preparation

People with a history of anaphylaxis should carry emergency medicine as prescribed by a doctor (such as an adrenaline auto-injector), and should let family, colleagues and teachers know where the medicine is kept and how to use it. After eating an allergen by mistake, see a doctor even if symptoms ease, because a second reaction can occur.

Reassessment

Some children's food allergies may become tolerance as they grow older. This needs regular assessment under a doctor's guidance. Do not "try eating it" on your own to test.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. For specifics, please follow your doctor's instructions.