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Step 1
Begin by identifying the foods that cause you the most trouble. You may find this out through medical testing or simple trial and error as you watch your symptoms when you eat different foods.
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Step 2
Some foods will cause minor symptoms and others more major symptoms. The foods that cause significant or life-threatening issues must be avoided consistently. Foods that cause more minor symptoms can be eaten occasionally in small quantities.
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Step 3
For those foods that you absolutely cannot eat, look for substitutes that may be less traditional but can be just as tasty. For example, try oat flour if you are allergic to wheat or give cashew butter a chance if peanuts are a problem for you.
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Step 4
Set up a rotation diet with the foods that cause more minor symptoms. Plan a schedule where each food can be eaten every fourth day. Try not to have two problem foods on the same day since that might make your reaction even worse. Many people find that favorite foods can still be had occasionally on a rotation diet.
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Step 5
If the temptation of a certain food is too great and eating it results in only minor symptoms, it's possible you'll find it's worth it to just grin and bear the symptoms in order to enjoy the food once in a while. Plan ahead to minimize your discomfort as much as possible and then go ahead and enjoy the food. Only you can determine if the consequences are worth the enjoyment!
