WHEAT TOP TEN by Dr Michael Freeman Dermatologist Symptoms of a wheat allergy reaction can range from mild reactions such as hives, rash, itchy skin and swelling, to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis. Wheat allergies are most common in children, but the good news is most children will go on to outgrow wheat allergies, usually around three years of age. Not be confused with gluten intolerance or coeliac disease, a wheat allergy is an overreaction of the immune system to a specific food protein. When the food protein is ingested, it can trigger an allergic reaction. A food allergy can be potentially fatal so it is important to be vigilant about checking ingredients in food before consumption. TOP TIP Grains such as quinoa, corn, amaranth, barley, oats, rice, rye, and tapioca all make great alternatives to wheat. Visit your local health food store for an array of tasty wheat-free alternatives. COW’S MILK Similar to wheat allergy, cow’s milk allergy mostly affects children, who tend to outgrow it around the age of three to four years. Having a milk allergy is not the same as being lactose intolerant, as the reaction occurs to the protein found in cow’s milk and not the lactose. Symptoms of milk allergy can present within minutes or take up to days to manifest, and can range from severe reactions such as wheezing, trouble breathing and anaphylaxis to milder reactions such as skin irritation and eczema flare ups. TOP TIP Supermarkets now carry a huge range of dairy-free alternatives such as rice milk, oat milk, almond milk, soy milk, and even products such as soy cheese, soy yoghurt and coconut yoghurt. INSECT BITES Most insect bites and stings result in a localised itch and swelling that settles within a few days. Severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) to insects are usually due to bees, wasps or the Australian Jack Jumper Ant, and are actually more common than you may think. Luckily, treatment for insect bites and stings is quite straightforward but it is recommended that anyone with a diagnosed allergy to bees or wasps carry an epi-pen on them at all times. TOP TIP If you are going to be outside during bee season, try and avoid wearing perfumes and bright colours, which attract bees. Dark, white or tan clothing is less attractive to bees. SOY Soybean allergy is another of the common food allergies amongst children and babies. Soybeans are used widely in processed foods, so a severe soybean allergy may prove to be a little difficult when feeding children and babies. It’s very important to carefully read food labels and ensure that any packaged foods you are feeding your child do not contain any traces of soy. If you are feeding your baby formula and your baby suffers from a soy allergy, be sure to check that the formula is free of soy. TOP TIP A lot of Asian cuisines rely heavily on soy-based products, so be sure to let your waiter know you/ your child have a soy allergy when dining out. General Hea lth ALLERGIES Whether they be food allergies, skin allergies, or sensitivities to the environment around you, allergies can be extremely frustrating and can interfere with daily life. Here we list the ten most common allergies, and tips on how to cope with your allergic diagnosis. 3 4 1 2 pindaramagazine.com.au Pindara Magazine 23
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Four
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