Food allergy
Many people, like Ross, have a food allergy. They are allergic to peanuts or nuts or have an allergy to fruit, vegetables or various herbs. However, not every reaction to food is an allergy! That is probably why 20% of Americans think they have a food allergy while their doctors think that it’s 3% maximum…

So, as an intro some info what is a food allergy, and more importantly, what is not!


What is a food allergy?
You are probably allergic to food when you have
- typical complaints (see below)
- every time you eat that food
- within minutes after eating it


What are the symptoms of food allergy?
Most people have complaints in their mouth first: they feel an itch on their palate or in their throat and sometimes their lips get swollen. That is what doctors call an oral allergy.
Some people can react a bit heavier when eating nuts or peanuts: they develop hives, get red all over the body, start vomiting or get asthma!!
Pretty scary…

Symptoms of food allergy


How does the doctor diagnose food allergy?
First, of course, your story has to fit in with the symptoms of food allergy. Secondly, some tests can be done. A GP will do some blood tests, if you visit an allergist or another specialist, they can do some skin tests.

Tests for food allergy


What is not a food allergy?
Not all reactions to food are allergic. Some reactions are caused by bacteria or toxins. Example: food such as fish has not been refrigerated properly, or has been in the fridge too long.
Other foods or drinks contain substances that can give complaints in all of us. Example: when you drink too much coffee, you can get palpitations or become a bit agitated. This does not mean you are allergic to coffee.

Adverse reactions to food


Treatment of food allergy
So far, there is no treatment of food allergy; strict avoidance is the only thing that really works! Some people with really serious symptoms have to carry special medication in case they run into some allergen by accident.
There are some exiting new developments, however: The Dutch for example have succeeded in developing an apple that can be safely eaten by apple allergic patients.

1. Avoidance of allergen in daily life
2. Emergency medication
3. Developments in treating food allergy