The Power of Prevention

FOOD SAFETY AND KIDS

Hum, the first thing I thought about when hearing this topic was, “Never bite something that can bite you back!” Or, if your cream cheese has a molehair coat…throw it out! But food allergens have become a growing concern for our families. The FDA has included these foods of the top 8 major dietary allergens: (milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and crustacean shellfish.) These should be marked on product and ingredient labels. BUT minor ingredients may not be so clear.

Common signs of a food allergy reaction can include:

Gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting, colic, diarrhea, or bleeding
Skin reactions, like hives, swelling or eczema
Respiratory distress, such as upper respiratory congestion, throat swelling, or wheezing
OR a life threatening condition like anaphylactic shock.

Please read on for a wonderfully concise and inclusive article from WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/allergies/anaphylaxis-10/food-allergies-smart-choices

Serving our kids wholesome meals daily is a lot of work. But seeing them grow and thrive is well worth the effort!

Carol Cochard Pool, PCAIN Prevention Education Specialist