How to cope with food allergies wherever you are

Food allergies are one of the fastest growing public health concerns in the United States, and there is no known cure. More than12 million people in the United States have food allergies – three million of them are children. So how do we begin to manage them as individuals and in our families?

Unfortunately, the cause has not yet been medically identified, but the condition is known to run in families. That's the case with author Mireille Schwartz, who is allergic to fish, and whose parents, brother, and daughter all have allergies to different foods. Because Schwartz has struggled since childhood with this life-threatening challenge, she knows firsthand how to help families deal with the many difficult consequences including imminent death their loved ones face.

Not only does she have personal experience with allergies – she's got the professional background to help navigate what can be very overwhelming and confusing territory. Schwartz is the founder and executive director of the Bay Area Allergy Advisory Board, an organization that promotes education and awareness, and provides no-cost medical care and medication to San Francisco Bay Area families with severely allergic children. She is the author of the new book, The Family Food Allergy Book.

Schwartz outlines the eight primary food allergies, which are to milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish – some may also be allergic to medication. Even trace amounts of a food allergen can cause a reaction. Symptoms like breathing difficulties, trouble swallowing, fainting, or sharp increase in heart rate usually show up within minutes of exposure (although some may take several hours or even twenty-four hours). Therefore, early identification and strict avoidance of known food allergens are essential to prevent serious health consequences. Schwartz recommends observing children carefully for patterns and discussing them with your pediatrician. A colicky baby might be allergic to milk, or a diaper rash might show up every time after an infant eats eggs. Skin and blood tests are essential for a definitive diagnosis.

After Schwartz details the obvious and hidden sources of the eight main types of food allergies and shares savvy allergen-avoidance techniques, she devotes five chapters to various challenges and how to cope with them in schools and restaurants, on public transportation and other enclosed spaces, and during family vacations and holidays. Another chapter is chock full of recipes like chewy granola bars made without nuts or wheat, and homemade vanilla ice cream made without milk.

Besides providing a wealth of helpful advice, Schwartz's overall message is supportive and positive. "It's absolutely possible to live a full, active life with your food allergies," she said. "Arming yourself with information is the key."

To read more about managing allergies in families and for individuals, go to www.basichealthpub.com or www.amazon.com to buy the book.