Food allergies affect approximately 2-6 % of all children, ranging from mild but miserable reactions to life altering and threatening allergies that can turn family life upside down.

Before you make the mistake of assuming your child has a food allergy just because they have a bad reaction to a certain food take the time to see your family doctor.  He will most likely have you take your child to an allergist for a series of tests to determine which, if any foods your child is allergic to.  Often what is mistaken for a food allergy is actually a food intolerance.

Once you have a diagnosis you can then begin to learn how to deal with the allergy in question.  Take time to learn all you can about your child’s allergy through the Internet, books and even local support clubs.  Important things to know are; what foods your child can eat, the hidden sources of the food they are allergic to, and what to do in case of a severe reaction to their allergen.

Eating at home is a matter of learning to cook without the foods that your child is allergic to. When you shop you will need to check labels carefully, as foods often have fillers and flavors that carry many common allergens. Health food stores carry a complete line of allergy free foods designed to help your child transition to an allergy free diet.

If your child eats school prepared meals you will need to talk to the school to make them aware of the allergy issues.  Many schools can adjust your child’s diet to fit in with their allergies including making sure food is prepared and eaten in separate areas if there are cross contamination concerns.

Friends and family members should also be told of your child’s allergy so that they can make the necessary adjustments to provide for meals and snacks.  Do not be afraid to send snacks along with your child, most friends and family will appreciate this since they may not be familiar with your child’s allergy needs.

Learning to deal with your child’s allergies can be a challenge but remember it is very important to ensure that they continue to eat a nutritionally well balanced meal.  As you learn more about their allergy, cooking allergen free meals will become second nature.