Food Allergy Facts

What Everyone Who Eats Should Know

Each year, more than 30,000 Americans end up in the emergency room after a food allergy attack.    And, to make the picture even more frightening, many adults experience food allergies to foods they may have eaten for years.    Allergic reactions to food can be sudden and severe.   Prompt medical attention and treatment may be necessary so it's wise to know the facts.

The eight most common foods that can cause severe and even life threatening food allergies are milk, eggs, fish, shellfish (shrimp), tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, etc.), peanuts, wheat, and soybeans.    Since these eight foods are part of many common items eaten everyday, it's wise to check packaging before eating for anyone who has ever suffered a food allergic reaction.   Beginning in January 2006 the United States Food and Drug Administration requires all food labels to clearly note any of the above foods so that allergy sufferers can be aware of the dangers.

Although some people have a lifelong sensitivity to food, a food allergy can happen without warning - even if you've eaten the food many times without any problems.    If a minor reaction happens,. be sure to see a doctor because future reactions are likely to be much more severe.

Family members who have food allergies make us more prone to having an allergic reaction ourselves. If one parent has a food allergy, then the child is up to 40% more likely to have one as well. This is especially true for children of parents who are allergic to shellfish and peanuts.   If you're worried, your doctor can order a series of tests to determine if you too may be allergic to the same foods.

Because food allergies build up over time, you can't be allergic to a food that you have never eaten before.    Food allergies happen after the body develops an intolerance to a particular food.    This can take months and in some cases years.