Food Allergies and Children

A recent study shows that as many as 8% of children under 18 are allergic to at least one food.  That’s 4% higher than originally reported in a government study conducted in 2009.  

This fact brings up many questions about food allergies and kids, such as:

• Which foods most commonly cause food allergies?
• At what age do food allergies usually appear in children?
• What are the most common signs of food allergies?

Don’t let your head spin with confusion and fear just yet. This week's Peas Perspective is here to shed some light on the food allergies conundrum so that you can continue to feel confident about nourishing your child.

Which foods most commonly cause allergies?

According to the Mayo Clinic, these eight foods contribute to 90% of food allergies: 

•                peanuts (most common)

•                milk (second most common)

•                shellfish (third most common)

•                eggs

•                tree nuts

•                fish (bass, cod, flounder)

•                soy

•                wheat

At what age do food allergies usually appear in children?

Although most babies have no sensitivities to their mother’s milk, a small percentage of infants can show a reaction to breast milk based on foods their mother has consumed.  With that being said, a majority of first time food allergies form in children between the ages of three-five. But it’s good to know that as children age (usually by the time they’re in elementary school) they often out grow allergies to soy and wheat. 

What are the most common signs of food allergies?

Most children under the age of six years old show signs of food allergies in the form of skin irritants such as a rash or eczema.  Older children more commonly show allergies through respiratory reactions such as wheezing and hacking.  Other commons signs of food allergies in children are: rash, eczema, hives, bloating, gas, diarrhea, vomiting or increased spitting-up, under average weight gain, runny nose, stuffiness, red itchy eyes, swollen eyelids, dark circles, sever coughing and asthma.