How to Live With a Tree Nut Allergy Safely

One of the eight most common allergies is an allergy to tree nuts. It is possible to be allergic to just one, such as almonds, or to all tree nuts. Either way, it is best to avoid all tree nuts to avoid serious reactions. This diagnosis can drastically affect your life. A majority of processed foods become off limits either because they contain tree nuts or have the possibility of being cross contaminated with other products being manufactured in the same location. Learning how to avoid tree nuts is the only way to stay safe.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Constant diligence in reading labels.
• Patience
• Planning meals

1. If you suspect a tree nut allergy, it is important to go to the doctor and get tested. Reactions can vary from a minor rash, hives, nausea, vomiting, to anaphylactic shock which affects your ability to breathe. A simple skin prick test in the allergist’s office will tell you if you are allergic and how severe the allergy is. If the test is positive, meaning you are allergic to tree nuts, the doctor will give you information on how to proceed. It is very likely the doctor will want you to carry an epinephrine pen with you wherever you go. This “pen,” is a shot of adrenaline which will stop a severe allergic reaction, called anaphylactic shock, until emergency personnel can get to you. It is important to learn to properly use this pen, as well as to teach the people who you are close to.

2. It is advisable to wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace stating your name and your specific allergies. This way, if you accidentally eat tree nuts, and are not able to communicate, the emergency personnel will be able to treat you properly.

3. Read every label. Devote extra time at the grocery store to read each label before buying any products. This includes obvious items such as crackers, cookies, and bread, but also items not as obvious such as barbeque sauce, candy, chips, cereal, salad dressings, and even prepared gravies. Even after you find “safe” packaged foods, continue reading the label every time you buy the product as manufacturers often change the ingredients or location of manufacturing. In addition, read the labels of all cosmetics, soaps, lotions, sunscreens, shampoos and conditioners. There are even some toys stuffed with ground tree nut shells.

4. It is time to learn how to cook. The safest way to avoid a reaction from tree nuts is to cook and bake as much of your food as possible. This way, you know exactly what ingredients are in the food and you will feel much safer eating it. There are many recipes on the internet and in cookbooks that are nut free. It is also possible to take some of your favorite recipes and change them to avoid your specific allergens. It may take a few attempts to find easy to prepare foods you enjoy, but it is worth the effort.

5. Invest in an ice cream maker and bread machine so you can continue to enjoy your favorite foods without a trip to the emergency room. It takes a little time, effort, and advanced planning but is the safest way to continue to eat your favorite comfort foods.

6. By checking and double checking labels, you can continue to eat your favorite foods and live safely with a tree nut allergy

Tips & Warnings

• Read all labels each time you buy an item.
• Change favorite recipes to remove any tree nuts.
• Wear medic alert jewelry of some sort.
• Consult your doctor if you suspect an allergy.
• Always be diligent in reading labels some manufacturers might change locations or ingredients.

[SarahElizabeth]

on 10/4/2009 Very good and informative article... learning to cook your own food is definitely important with nut allergies. 5*