Can you be allergic to your favorite food?

The short answer: If you’re allergic, it’s highly unlikely. Although it’s possible you could be allergic to a food in its raw state and not when it’s heated since proteins are altered by heat, avoidance is still recommended.

What is the first step in treatment of food allergies?

The first step to managing a food allergy is getting a proper diagnosis. If you are diagnoses with a particular food allergy, part of the treatment plan is strict avoidance of that food. On the other hand, an intolerance may allow the patient to eat small quantities of a food without having a reaction.

How can food allergies be prevented?

The only way to prevent a food allergy reaction is to completely avoid the food and any product that may contain it as an ingredient. Food intolerance does not trigger the immune system and is not life threatening or the same as a food allergy, although it may share similar symptoms.

How do allergies affect food choices?

With a food allergy, the body reacts as though that particular food product is harmful. As a result, the body’s immune system (which fights infection and disease) creates antibodies to fight the food allergen .

What is the medicine for food allergy?

Antihistamines. Antihistamines work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is responsible for many of the symptoms of an allergic reaction. Many antihistamines are available from your pharmacist without prescription – stock up in case of an emergency. Non-drowsy antihistamines are preferred.

Can food allergies be treated?

No, food allergies cannot be cured. The best way to avoid an allergic reaction to a food is to avoid it. Depending on the allergy, your healthcare provider may also recommend avoiding foods that may cause a cross reaction.

What are the risks of food allergies?

Food allergy risk factors include:

• Family history. You’re at increased risk of food allergies if asthma, eczema, hives or allergies such as hay fever are common in your family.
• Other allergies. If you’re already allergic to one food, you may be at increased risk of becoming allergic to another.
• Age.
• Asthma.

Why is it important to know about food allergies?

Unlike other types of food intolerance, food allergies can be fatal. People with food allergies don’t just have to avoid eating the food, they have to worry about cross-contamination with trace amounts.