### Understanding Food Allergies and Intolerances in Children Many daycares and preschools in the U.S. ask parents not to pack food containing peanuts due to the high number of children with allergies. Food allergies affect up to 8% of children in the U.S., posing challenges for parents in managing their child's diet. #### Common Food Allergies - **Eggs, milk, and peanuts** are the most common allergens in young children. - **Wheat, soy, shellfish, fish, and tree nuts** become more common as children grow older. #### Outgrowing Allergies - Most children outgrow allergies to **milk, wheat, and soy** by age 7. - Allergies to **peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish** are usually lifelong. #### Severity of Allergic Reactions - The severity of a reaction cannot be predicted by tests. Factors like the amount of food ingested and the child's health at the time can influence the reaction. #### Food Sensitivities - **Lactose intolerance**: More common in school-age children and adults, causing gastrointestinal symptoms. - **Gluten sensitivity**: Rare in children, causing gastrointestinal symptoms without the typical allergic reactions. #### Causes of Food Allergies - True food allergies are caused by an immune response involving IgE antibodies. Other non-IgE-mediated reactions can also occur, such as enterocolitis in young children. #### Symptoms of Food Allergies - **Skin**: Hives or itchy rash - **Respiratory**: Coughing, wheezing, swollen throat - **Gastrointestinal**: Vomiting, intestinal pain, diarrhea #### Diagnosis and Treatment - Allergies are diagnosed through skin tests or blood tests for IgE antibodies. - The only treatment is to avoid the allergenic food. #### Managing Special Dietary Needs - Substitute foods like calcium-enriched orange juice for milk and egg-free recipes can help manage allergies. - Resources like the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network provide recipes and tips for shopping and cooking. #### Safety Tips - Educate your child about their allergies and how to avoid allergens. Use resources like FAAN for support. - In severe cases, carry an Epi-Pen for emergency treatment. #### Pregnancy and Nursing - Avoiding highly allergenic foods during pregnancy and nursing is often recommended, but evidence is inconclusive. #### Risk for Siblings - If allergies run in the family, the risk for siblings is higher. Breastfeeding and delaying solids can help reduce the risk. Understanding and managing food allergies and intolerances can help ensure your child stays safe and healthy.