C3 Food Allergy

Question 1

Differentiate between food allergy and food intolerance.

Answer 1

Food allergy: An IMMUNOLOGIC reaction caused by the ingestion of a food or a food additive.

Food intolerance: An abnormal physiological response to an ingested food or additive that is not immunogenic.

Question 2

State the 8 types of allergens that require special labelling.

Answer 2

“Every Fisherman Will Make Shellfish Taste Perfectly Sweet”
- E for Egg
- F for Fish
- W for Wheat containing gluten
- M for Milk
- S for Shellfish
- T for Tree nuts
- P for Peanuts
- S for Soybeans

Question 3

What are some common symptoms of food allergy?

Answer 3

Abnormal skin, gastrointestinal, respiratory and circulatory responses. And in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

Question 4

What is anaphylaxis?

Answer 4

A severe allergic reaction that can occur in response to certain allergens. Anaphylaxis may cause difficulty breathing and a drop in blood pressure.

Question 5

What are the main methods of treatment for food allergy?

Answer 5

• Avoid trigger food/beverage
• Medications include antihistamine, bronchodilator and epinephrine.

Question 6

How can food allergy be diagnosed?

Answer 6

• Skin test: Antigen is placed on the skin and the skin is punctured to allow penetration. Limitations: Low accuracy, does not rule out non-IgE mediated reactions and food intolerances.
• Blood tests: RAST, ELISA, FEIA. May measure total IgE or IgG.
• Unorthodox tests: Vega test, radionics, ALCAT.

Question 7

What are some common food ingredients that cause food intolerances?

Answer 7

Dairy, Beans, Carbs, Gluten, Cruciferous Vegetables.

Question 8

What are some strategies for managing food allergy?

Answer 8

• Food substitution: Substitute item-for-item at meals.
• Always carry medication and bring “safe” Foods along to make eating out easier.
• Alert waiters about food allergy
• Substitute ingredients for cooking.
• Total avoidance of offending food/beverage,