What special precautions are taken for children with known food allergies diabetes or celiac disease?

Food Allergies

* Educate the child and their caregivers about the allergy. This includes what foods to avoid, how to read food labels, and what to do in case of an allergic reaction.

* Create a food allergy action plan. This plan should include instructions on how to recognize and treat an allergic reaction, as well as emergency contact information.

* Make sure the child's school and other caregivers are aware of the allergy. This includes teachers, bus drivers, and babysitters.

* Be prepared to treat an allergic reaction. Keep epinephrine (EpiPen) on hand at all times and know how to use it.

Diabetes

* Test the child's blood sugar regularly. This can be done at home using a blood glucose meter.

* Give the child insulin as prescribed. Insulin helps to lower blood sugar levels.

* Encourage the child to eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise. These two things can help to control blood sugar levels.

* Teach the child about diabetes. This includes what diabetes is, how it is managed, and what to do if they feel sick.

Celiac Disease

* Avoid foods that contain gluten. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley.

* Read food labels carefully to make sure they are gluten-free. Some foods that are naturally gluten-free may be processed in a facility that also processes gluten-containing foods.

* Encourage the child to eat a healthy diet. Eating a healthy diet can help to reduce the symptoms of celiac disease.

* Teach the child about celiac disease. This includes what celiac disease is, how it is managed, and what to do if they feel sick.

Allergies - Related Articles