People associate food allergies with something that dates back to childhood. Food allergies can appear at any age. What’s important is that you don’t associate a food sensitivity or intolerance with an allergy. There are differences.
What Are the Differences Between Food Allergies and Food Sensitivities?
A food allergy can be life-threatening. Itching and hives are common symptoms. People with food allergies may find their throat swells up and makes it impossible to breathe. Anaphylactic shock may occur if medical intervention isn’t performed immediately. People with food allergies should carry an Epi-Pen as a preventative measure.
Food allergies are usually linked to these ingredients:
• Dairy/milk proteins
• Eggs
• Nuts
• Seafood
• Soy
• Wheat
Food sensitivities are not life-threatening. They definitely lead to discomfort and can make you feel miserable, but you’re not at risk of swelling. Indigestion, gas, nausea, bloating, stomach cramps, and diarrhea are signs of a food sensitivity.
When you have an intolerance to certain foods, it can be linked to additives or preservatives used in certain dishes, a sensitivity to something like caffeine or natural sugars within a food, or a lack of enzymes that help digest certain foods. A common food sensitivity is MSG and the headaches that additive causes in certain people.
The Facts About Food Allergies and Sensitivities
Food allergies rarely appear later in life. While it can happen, it’s extremely unlikely. When a food allergy is found later in life, it’s very unlikely that your parent will outgrow that allergy. About 1 out of 4 children do outgrow their childhood food allergies.
There is one apparently food allergy that adults are experiencing regarding beef. A specific tick bite can lead to an allergy to red meat. If you find your parent has an allergic reaction after eating beef, pork, veal, or venison, talk to a doctor. The bite of a Lone Star tick can cause this allergy.
There’s another problem older people have that may come off as a food sensitivity that isn’t. As you age, your taste buds and sense of smell become less effective. This can make foods your parents once loved smell and taste unpleasant. Their avoidance of certain foods may simply be part of the changes they experience as they age.
Preparing Foods for Someone With an Allergy or Sensitivity
Allergies or sensitivities may make it hard for your mom and dad to cook meals. If foods don’t smell or taste the same, your parent will really have a hard time coming up with meals they are able to prepare quickly and easily.
If you’re finding your parents leaning towards frozen meals or takeout foods, it’s a good time to discuss the benefits of home care services. A caregiver can help them find new foods they love, prepare meals for them, and ensure they’re getting enough to eat. A home care services provider can help you find services that benefit your parents. Call now.
Sources: https://acaai.org/allergies/types/food-allergy
https://acaai.org/news/allergy-clinic-finds-large-percentage-anaphylaxis-cases-were-tick-bite-meat-allergy
If you or an aging loved one are in need of Home Care Services in Plainview NY or the surrounding areas, contact the caring professionals at Star Multi Care Services today at (631)956-8835. We are the Right Choice for Home Health Care Services!
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