We began the discussion of what foods to avoid at gathering where guests may be gluten intolerant. Nowadays, there are plenty of delicious, healthy gluten-free options that remain crowd-pleasers. Take a look for more ways to entertain while avoiding some of the most common food allergies and intolerances.
Food safety for group gatherings:
Previously, we began this discussion as Memorial Day was approaching. Now, that honorable holiday has passed, but you are sure to have at least one more gathering before summer is over. Even after summer, these food safety tips are so very useful and remain relevant.
Any of our suggestions are practical for holidays, birthday parties, and work events. Food intolerances and allergies are very common. According to FARE, Food Allergy Research and Education, a food allergy is a medical condition in which exposure to the food triggers a harmful immune response.
The response to the food is called an allergic reaction. It happens as the body’s immune system attacks protein in the food that are normally harmless. Allergens are the proteins that trigger the reaction.
We have discussed the reaction people people experiences that have gluten intolerances. However, allergic reactions are a bit different. Reactions to foods you are allergic to can range from mild to even death.
The mouth and throat can become itchy. This is a sure sign to react immediately, and do not downplay the situation. Things can progress quickly.
Be aware of the foods to avoid:
Thera are more than 170 foods that have been reported to cause allergic reactions. Milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish are the eight most common foods to cause serious allergic reactions.
For this reason, most experienced party hosts will not include them in their food lineup, or they will clearly label foods which content these most foods. An announcement and reminders should be repeated to avoid allergic reactions. After all, the host is responsible for their guests safety.
In the instance of children, some parents are not yet aware of their child’s food allergies. At events where children are present, avoid these foods at all costs. The food coloring dye Red 40 should also be avoided.
About one in thirteen kids have food allergies. That is about two students in every classroom event. For summer camps coming up, do not send your child to school with any foods they have never eaten. Scratchy throats and mouths may be confused with seasonal allergy symptoms.
Always give your child new foods under your supervision. Also, avoid giving your child any new foods towards their bed time. You should always wait a few hours after ingestion to monitor your child.
The same goes for adults as well. However, most of the time, adults are more aware of how their body feels and signs to lookout for. Be sure to look out for how your child reacts after eating a new food or drink.
Allergies at all ages:
Caring for children costs families twenty-five billion dollars annually. Be sure to teach your kids about diversity. Children are often bullied as a result of their food allergies. Children will food allergies are twice as likely to get bullied compared to children that do not have medical a medical condition.
We hope that by giving people this valuable and possibly life-saving information, it will be put to good use. This information is useful every day of your life, of course, but it is extremely relevant during the summer months with beach parties, Father’s Day, and Fourth of July coming up!
Come back next time for more information that can better your life and digestive health. Make an appointment today to speak with our doctors to discuss whether or not your issues are related to food allergies or intolerances.
Join us next time for specific foods that are great to make for gatherings!
Staff Writer