Food Allergies

The gastrointestinal tract is uniquely suited to digest all the different foods we eat to help our children grow and thrive. However, there are times when the body reacts to certain foods and cause discomfort.

A true food allergy occurs when the body sees food as harmful and the immune system reacts to the allergens. When the response involves antibodies known as immunoglobulin E (IgE), symptoms such as hives, trouble breathing, or vomiting can appear quickly (think: bee sting, anaphylaxis and epinephrine injection). Other times, non-IgE mediated allergies may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain or diarrhea that are delayed up to three days (think: poison ivy, eczema). The most common food allergens – both IgE and non-IgE, in children include milk, soy, egg, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish.

A food intolerance or food sensitivity occurs when the body has trouble digesting certain foods, but the immune system is not involved. A common example is lactose intolerance where the intestinal enzymes cannot completely process the ingested milk sugar. Food intolerances can lead to similar symptoms as food allergies, but the reactions tend to be less severe.

Food allergy testing often involves blood testing for IgE-mediated allergies, skin prick testing in the Allergist office or oral food challenges. Early introduction under the guidance of an Allergist or Pediatric Gastroenterologist has shown to be somewhat effective in staving off allergy in select patients. See an article about the landmark Bamba Study here.

In most cases, treatment of allergies and intolerances involves removing certain foods from the diet. However, overly restricting a child’s diet could have a negative impact on their nutrition and growth. In certain situations, medications may be useful as well. Your child’s pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologistcan help guide you through the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions.