Foods to Avoid With a Peanut Allergy

Peanut allergies are common in children and can last or develop throughout adulthood. Proactive elimination of food sources containing peanuts from the diet, combined with increased awareness while dining out and grocery shopping, is effective in preventing allergic reactions.

Effects

• Peanut allergies can cause mild symptoms of hives, congestion and itchy eyes, mouth and throat; progressing to moderate symptoms of nausea, vomiting and stomach discomfort; or a severe condition called anaphylaxis, whose symptoms are chest tightness, constricted breathing and throat closure, which occurs within five minutes of exposure.

Considerations

• Peanuts and peanut oil are used to prepare an array of fried foods, and are prevalent in Asian dishes, veggie burgers, fast-food fried chicken and french fries, cereals, baked goods and candy.

Warning

• Peanut oil is a thickening agent used in the preparation of sauces, dressings, frosting, baking mixes, flour, ice cream and chocolate-based products, and may be present in vegetable oil, butter and starch.

Types

• Those suffering from a peanut allergy should avoid all kinds of nuts and foods that may contain them or be prepared in a facility where nuts are handled, including trail mix, granola, doughnuts, muffins and cookies.

Prevention/Solution

• Peanut allergies are potentially life threatening, and can be triggered through inhalation and skin contact. Children with a predisposition for developing a peanut allergy due to family history or preexisting food allergies can be tested for it.

Treatment

• Oral and topical antihistamines can treat mild symptoms of peanut allergies, while EpiPen injections are necessary in life-threatening cases of anaphylaxis.