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Food Allergies Research Paper

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Food allergies are becoming increasingly prevalent across the world, affecting more and more children each year. There are many misconceptions surrounding food allergies and fad diets, along with misinformation, aren’t helping the cause. The lack of consensus regarding how to define food intolerance and food allergies makes the already complicated issue more confusing. Some theories claim that the increase in food allergies is attributed to modern hygiene practices, where others point to the increase of food preservatives. The exact etiology of food allergies is unknown, although there is some scientific information available on prevention. The subject of food allergies is important because it is life threatening and the potential severity …show more content…

When the body is unable to break down certain elements present in specific foods, food intolerance is experienced (Harvard para. 6). Examples of food intolerance include lactose intolerance, gluten sensitivities, and adverse reactions to MSG and additives. Symptoms usually affect the digestive system, which include diarrhea, gas, and nausea (Harvard para. 12). Food intolerances are most effectively dealt with by total elimination of the offending food. True food allergies refer to an immune system response. If the body views a certain food as harmful, it will produce an antibody called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) to fight off the invader. Common symptoms associated with an allergic reaction are tingling around the mouth, hives, throat swelling, and difficulty breathing (Harvard para. 12). A food intolerance can be uncomfortable; however, food allergies are life threatening. It is important to rule out whether an adverse reaction to food is an allergy or an intolerance, as to avoid cutting out nutrients crucial to a well-rounded …show more content…

Different approaches in treatment also contribute to complications. Parents who sought information from an allergist are more informed on the subject of food allergies, rather that parents who sought care from a pediatrician or a physician without any specialty. “A previous study in the USA found that pediatricians have several misconceptions regarding food allergy, are often not comfortable interpreting food allergy test results, and express concern in their training regarding their ability to care for food allergy patients” A child’s history of anaphylaxis is also indicative of parent’s food allergy knowledge (Goossens et al. para. 22). Streamlining treatment and education for food allergies amongst clinicians and parents is important. However, finding a cure for food allergies tops parent’s lists as being the top

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