Healthy Kids: Basics of food allergies

Allergies both environmental and food are problematic for many children and adults.  Here to discuss the basics of food allergies, allergy tests and treatment is Dr. Annette St. Pierre-MacKoul.

Food Allergies:

8 percent of children have food allergies.

Diagnosis involves history and testing.

Skin testing is better than blood testing.

Parents are often confused.

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Symptoms of Food Allergy:

Itching

Hives

Eczema

Trouble breathing

Vomiting

Stomach pain

Diarrhea

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Food Allergy Confusion:

Food Allergy

Food Intolerance (missing an enzyme=GI upset)

Celiac Disease (gluten + immune reaction)

Food Sensitivity (no immune system involvement)

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Conclusions:

For food allergies or elimination diets, see a nutritionist.

Poor nutrition is very dangerous!

Diagnosis is important to avoid anaphylaxis.

OTC allergy tests are not helpful.

Any association with ADD or Autism and gluten-free diets is being studied.

Avoid artificial food coloring and sugary foods with ADD or Autism.