My kids have food allergies.
When they were little babies, they had eczema. So, with the guidance of our wonderful pediatrician, we had the necessary blood test to figure out what exactly they were allergic to. We found out at that time they were allergic to ALL NUTS, egg whites, and soy. We were advised to avoid those foods.
So began my life of cooking and baking and label reading.
Also, began my life of carrying Epi Pens.
A few weeks ago, almost 6 years later, we experienced our first ever serious allergic reaction at a professional soccer game. There was vomiting and hives, and it was terrible. A trip to the ER, a dose of epinephrine, steroid, and Benedryl, and we were on our way. However, it could have been much much worse.
We are lucky.
Oh, so lucky.
At a follow up appointment with our pediatrician, we decided it was time to do some more testing, see an allergist, and see what could have caused the reaction. After two appointments (and with a few more to come), we know the kids overall allergy counts are high. This means that not only are they allergic to foods, but there are environmental things such as pollens, molds, pet danders, and dust mite allergies. One of my children is asthmatic. One of the kids’ peanut, tree nut, and egg allergies have worsened over time, and they also may have developed some other food allergies like to wheat.
We were always careful and diligent before, but now knowing that perhaps things could be worse, we are treading new waters. Every day, I am learning how to be even more careful as the kids might be more sensitive to these allergens, and until we can find treatment.
So, in the interest of educating myself, my family, my friends, and anyone who has an allergy sufferer in their life who they love, I think it is time I start FREE FRIDAY. This is where I will share any information, recipes, tips, or guest posters on living a life that is allergen free.
Stay tuned next week for back to school tips and a GREAT CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE recipe!
Don’t those look awesome?
5 comments
Hi Erin, Marty has all of those allergies, too. Started with soy and peanuts. Now it seems to be any legumes (peas, kidney beans, chili with beans,etc.) The most important thing we have learned is to teach him what he is allergic to and to recognize the early signs of a reaction. He has been reading labels since he could read and he always asks about peanut oil, and food prep when he goes to a new restaurant . We always told his teachers and the school what his allergies were but I think it is more important for him to know and advocate for himself. All his friends now know about his allergies and are very protective of him. I feel your pain it is a scary thing for a parent to deal with. You can do it! Janine
Thanks, Janinie! I agree about kids being educated and advocating for themselves, and love that you had Marty reading labels 🙂 My little ones have always been good about asking adults if something in they are about to eat is safe at parties. Please if you have any other tips to share, let me know!
You should get Gwyneth Paltrow's cookbook: It's All Good. Everything in it is gluten-free and most (other than a small chapter on poultry, a couple fish recipes, and only one or two red meat recipes) are vegan as well. And every recipe is REALLY simple and REALLY delicious. I've been loving it. It's also set up so you can make adjustments for elimination diets. I'd also recommend the Oh, She Glows cookbook. I'm experimenting with limited gluten and dairy and limited processed sugar, and these have been live savers.
Thanks for the tips, Jeannie!
I was told I was allergic to peanuts four years ago and just found out a few weeks ago that I am no longer allergic. Crazy but I am enjoying every peanut thing imagineable since.
Ella has a friend who has a serious peanut allergy, I am sending his mom to your blog because she will love the recipes.
I am glad everyone is feeling better and is ok. 🙂