Allergies pertaining to food witnessed a surge all across the globe and impacted scores of lives. It is significant to comprehend food allergies to protect health of consumers. Correct information of allergens allows precise labelling according to regulations and it can effectively prevent subsequent reactions. Food allergy can be defined as an immune system reaction which takes place after consumption of a particular food. Even a small quantity of allergy-causing food can lead to digestion issues, swollen airways, and rashes, among others. A food allergy, in some persons, can also lead to fatal or life-threatening reaction called as anaphylaxis. Meanwhile, some people often confuse food allergy with lesser common reaction namely food intolerance. It is worth mentioning that food intolerance is not a much serious condition as it does not involve the immune system. Below are some of the common types and causes of food allergies:
Different Types of Food Allergy: There are various types of food allergy that may include peanut allergy, tree nut allergy, egg allergy, soy allergy, fish allergy, milk allergy, and wheat allergy, among others. Peanut allergy has emerged as one of the highly severe allergies that can lead to anaphylaxis. Tree nut allergy can occur from the consumption of walnut, cashew or almond. On the other hand, milk energy is commonly found among children which differs from lactose intolerance. Soy allergy remains mild but a person suffering from it may still find it uncomfortable. Fish allergy is found to be quite severe and may impact the person lifelong.
Causes of Food Allergy: The main reasons causing food allergy are still difficult to discover. However, genetics play crucial role but environmental reasons may also influence. A family history of allergies may increase the possibility of developing allergies to specific food. When you comprehend various types of food allergies it will also include identifying the several triggers and how they communicate with the immune system. Different types of food allergy possess unique characteristics and risks that have increased significance of personalised assessment and management. When you suffer from food allergy, your immune system wrongly detects a particular food or a substance in the food as dangerous. Subsequently, the immune system causes cells to create an antibody immunoglobulin E to identify the allergy-inducing food known as allergen.
The best way to manage different types of food allergy is to avoid the allergen. But, you may still get exposed to such foods accidently which will require emergency treatment. It is worth noting that people with food allergy will have to maintain consistent watchfulness and adaption. They must adjust their lifestyles and remain fully prepared for emergencies.
They should ensure to keep a vigil on ingredients if they dine out and attend important events. It is important to carry medicines such as antihistamines or epinephrine auto-injectors if you are suffering from severe allergies. Meanwhile, research has been going on for treatments such as oral immunotherapy or OIT. OIT is an active cure for food allergies that includes steady consumption, raising quantities of allergenic food under supervision in order to desensitise immune system.