The 7 Most Common Food Allergies You Need To Know

If you ever sat down to enjoy a delicious meal, only to find out your body might be reacting to something on your plate. Indeed, it's life with food allergies. In the US. alone, food allergies affect up to 32 million people, including 5.6 million kids. Therefore, it becomes significantly important to learn about some of the most common food allergies so you can keep you and your loved ones safe from any potential challenges they might face every day.

Read below this article to explore the seven most common food allergies you need to know about.

While milk might be a staple for many, it's actually an allergy trigger for some. Milk allergies, particularly to cow’s milk, are one of the most common food allergies, especially in kids. From mild hives to severe anaphylaxis, the reactions can range widely. Did you know that nearly 2.5 percent of kids below the age of three have a milk allergy? While many outgrow this allergy by the time they reach the age of 5, if the allergy persists, the better alternatives include almond milk or oat milk. Also, ensure to check every label carefully, as hidden milk proteins can be there in some baked goods or processed meats.

Peanuts can cause severe allergic reactions. In fact, this allergy affects about 1 in 50 children, and the figures have been rising ever since. In fact, peanut-induced anaphylaxis is a leading cause of food-related deaths. Most parents with kids suffering from peanut allergies often need to carry with them an epinephrine injector for emergency situations.

Another common food allergy is egg allergies, which are equally found in adults as well. From skin rashes to stomach pain or breathing difficulties, the symptoms can range. Surprisingly, the proteins that cause egg allergies are mostly found in the egg whites rather than the yolk. Only 1-2 percent of kids are affected by egg allergies, and they usually outgrow them as they turn into their teenage years. Fortunately, flaxseed, applesauce, or commercial egg replacers are great alternatives to eggs when it comes to baking.

Tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pistachios are another common reason behind food allergy triggers. In fact, cross-contamination is a huge concern for tree nut allergies; therefore, it becomes essentially important to be extra cautious while dining out or while buying packaged foods. If you’re looking for alternatives, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds are some great picks.

Fish allergies most commonly emerge during adulthood and can quickly turn life-threatening. These allergic reactions are usually triggered by fish proteins such as parvalbumin, which is often found in species including salmon, tuna, and cod. According to a study, about 2% of adults are allergic to fish. People suffering from food allergies need to be a little more careful, as cross-contamination in restaurants is fairly possible.

Did you know that soy is a hidden ingredient in many processed foods, which makes it even more difficult to prevent? While it is typically common in children, adults too suffer from this. Symptoms such as mild itching or gastrointestinal issues can be noticed. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), soy allergies affect about 0.4 percent of kids. However, fortunately, coconut aminos or dairy-free substitutes are great replacements for soy.

Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, is another common source for triggering allergic responses in people. This type of food allergy also triggers a condition known as celiac disease—an autoimmune disorder where gluten intake damages the small intestine significantly. Since gluten is present not just in breads and pasta but also hidden in processed foods, sauces, soups, some medications, and even beauty products, it makes it furthermore challenging to handle. The best way to reduce the risk of allergic triggers to gluten is to read labels cautiously and choose certified gluten-free products always.

Food allergies are becoming quite common among adults and kids alike. When it comes to reducing the risk of food allergy triggers, it is much more than just coding specific foods but also reading labels, asking questions, and being prepared for emergencies at all times. In this article, you can explore some of the most common food allergies so you can be aware and can create an allergy-safe environment for you or your loved ones who might be dealing with food allergies.