Common Food Allergens

Food allergies are an increasingly common medical condition in which the body reacts abnormally or excessively to certain foods.While food allergies can range in severity, most of them involve an immune system response that results in symptoms such as rashes, nausea, vomiting, or breathing difficulties.The majority of food allergy-related reactions are caused by eight common food groups including peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. Common Culprits for Food Allergies Milk Milk is a typical food allergen, and it is especially dangerous for young children. Symptoms include hives, vomiting, and even anaphylaxis. While some people may outgrow milk allergies, for others, it can be a lifelong condition. If you have a milk allergy, it's important to read labels carefully and avoid all forms of milk, including butter and cheese. Eggs While in most cases, people outgrow egg allergies by the age of five, for some, egg allergies can persist throughout adulthood. Symptoms include hives, itching, and anaphylaxis. Always check labels and avoid foods that contain eggs or egg-based products like mayonnaise and some baked goods. Peanuts Peanut allergies are one of the most common food allergies, and peanuts can be found in many foods, including baked goods, candy, and peanut butter. Symptoms include anaphylaxis, hives, and swelling. To avoid peanuts, always read food labels and be aware of cross-contamination in restaurants. Tree Nuts Tree nuts, including almonds, cashews, and walnuts, are another common food allergen. Symptoms can be mild or severe, and in some cases, can lead to anaphylaxis. Always read labels carefully, and be aware that tree nuts may be present in baked goods, cereals, and granola bars. Shellfish Shellfish allergies are very common and can be life-threatening. Avoid all forms of shellfish, including shrimp, crab, and lobster. Be aware of cross-contamination in restaurants, and always ask how food is prepared. Soy Soy is a common food allergen, and it can be found in many packaged foods, including processed meats, bread, and cereal. Symptoms include hives and difficulty breathing. It's important to read labels carefully and avoid all forms of soy. Wheat Wheat allergies are common, and many people with wheat allergies also have celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder. Symptoms of wheat allergies include hives, nausea, and swelling. Avoid wheat, rye, and barley, and be aware that wheat is often present in baked goods, pasta, and crackers. Fish Fish allergies can be severe, and symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening. Avoid all forms of fish, including shellfish, and be aware of cross-contamination in restaurants. Corn Corn allergies are less common than some of the other allergies on this list, but they can be severe. Symptoms include hives, swelling, and vomiting. Corn can be found in many packaged foods, including cereals, soups, and even some medications. Sesame Sesame allergies are becoming more common, and sesame can be found in many foods, including bread, sauces, and dips. Symptoms include hives and difficulty breathing. Always read food labels carefully, and be aware that sesame may be present in…