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Food Allergy and Food Intolerance Tips

Food Allergy

A food allergy is triggered when a reaction occurs after contact with a particular food to which you are sensitised (i.e. you have taken in this food before in some form). The body sees the food as a foreign substance and mounts an attack against the protein from the foods by producing IgE antibodies (via the immune system). This triggers an allergic response which leads to mild /moderate or severe symptoms which can include swelling of the face and tongue; a rash called 'hives' which is like a nettle rash; breathing difficulties; runny nose and eyes; swelling of the throat, abdominal pain and bowel disturbances, nausea and vomiting and could lead to life threatening collapse (Anaphylaxis). Many treatments can be used to manage food allergies - so contact your GP to make sure you have the most appropriate one!

Food Intolerance

A food intolerance can be described as the body being unable to fully breakdown or having an inability to digest certain foods. This can lead to symptoms such as migraines, bloating and aches and pains and can affect many systems of the body. It is not as serious as a life threatening allergy, however symptoms can be very difficult to cope with and can affect a persons' quality of life. Previously called food intolerance, it is now known as Non Allergic Food Hypersensitivity.

Outlined below are some coping tips to help if you have to deal with these problems:

  1. Plan ahead - write a list of your foods you can tolerate and try to get some recipes, which incorporate these. Discuss with your dietician (ask for advice and help about special dietary alternatives / recipes and food intolerance databank list). Try local libraries for recipes or contact (www.foodsmatter.com) for more information on food sensitivities/recipes.  
  2. If you are eating out telephone the host/ chef in advance, explain your needs. Offer to supply your own food or see if the menu can be adapted for you. Always make a point of discussing beforehand so you are never tempted to eat anything you shouldn't!  
  3. Take extra supplies with you and carry a spare packed lunch of goodies that will keep (just in case you are longer than anticipated!!).  
  4. Make sure you always keep your fluids up ( drink at least 2 L /day).  
  5. Keep a food and symptom diary if you have a reaction to try to pinpoint what may have triggered your symptoms.  
  6. Contact your local supermarket customer services; ask for advice on free from foods.  
  7. Contact Allergy UK (www.allergyuk.org) for further detailed information and ideas.  
  8. Try to plan for special events- obtain a list of specialist manufacturers for details of birthday treats /Christmas novelties, which may be suitable for your special dietary needs.  
  9. Make everyone aware if you have a life-threatening allergy, consider your management plan, identification - jewellery, think of special issues i.e. School and Work and if these may pose any difficulties. Always carry your medication and make sure you have enough to last through holiday periods.  
  10. Freeze and bake so you have stocks of allowed foods and don't have to bake every few days. This will make a wider selection of choice too!  
  11. If going abroad obtain some Allergy Translation cards (Allergy UK) so you are able to show them in different countries. Always find out where the nearest hospital /Doctor is just in case of an emergency.  
  12. To speed up your shopping try to make a list of the places where you get various supplies and do this on a regular basis so you do not have to shop at several places each week. Ask Manufacturers (some do an e-mail service) to contact you should they have new products available/check their websites regularly for new recipes /tips.  
  13. Ensure you tell children rules about not sharing food and give anyone who may be looking after them strict instructions and supplies of foods that may be given.  
  14. Keep your appointments for check-ups, reviews regularly and try to list any queries you need to be answered so you don't forget.  
  15. Join a support group such as Allergy UK for more information, literature, research and ideas as well as support!  
  16. Contact your Doctor if you are at all concerned or if your symptoms change in any way.  
  17. Make sure you and whoever prepares your food are aware of cross contamination issues, always prepare your food in separate clean areas and avoid communal areas such as buffet bars where contamination may occur.  
  18. Find out if your GP is willing to prescribe any foods for you.  
  19. If you are starting work or moving away from home to start a course, take some information with you and make sure you tell people if your allergy is severe. Always carry medication with you and talk about your needs!  
  20. Always be aware of hidden allergens! Never try something without checking ingredients first!  
  21. Take extra care with babies and young children, remember to tell anybody caring for them about their allergies/intolerances and give all treatment details/emergency numbers, etc.

Good Luck!

Author: Gail Sinfield, Allergy UK Nurse Consultant - December 2005