5 Tips For Dealing With Food Allergies

If you have just been diagnosed with food allergies, you might feel a little frustrated and unsure of how you will cope. Managing food allergies can definitely be difficult at times. If you accidentally eat something that you are allergic to, you may experience unpleasant side effects like stomach pain, diarrhea, hives, and swelling. However, if you take good care of yourself and change of your lifestyle habits, you can avoid bad reactions. Here are five helpful tips for dealing with food allergies:

1. Have Two Sets of Cooking and Eating Utensils

If you live with other people who don't share your food allergies, it may be wise to use two sets of cooking and eating utensils. This way, you can avoid cross-contamination and getting sick.

2. Always Read Food Labels

When you have food allergies, it becomes even more important to read food labels, even if you have bought the food item many times before. Manufacturers sometimes change the ingredients on their foods, so it is better to be safe than sorry.

3. Dine Out With Caution

It is possible to eat at restaurants with food allergies; you just have to be more careful. Before you order a meal, inform the manager of your food allergies and what ingredients you have to avoid. He or she will then tell the chef how you want your food prepared.

4. Carry Your Medication With You

Even if you are very careful about reading labels and finding out how food is prepared before eating it, you should still carry your emergency medication, like an EpiPen, with you at all times. If you accidentally eat something you are not supposed to have, you can take the medication and avoid a potentially life-threatening situation.

5. Clean Up Thoroughly After Cooking

If you regularly cook meals for your family, it is important to thoroughly clean all the pans, pots and dishes when everyone is done eating. You should also use warm water and soap to wipe down the counter space you used. Doing this will help you avoid coming in contact with food that you are allergic to.

Managing food allergies can be tough at times, but it does not have to be unbearable. If you follow these helpful tips, you can deal with your food allergies better and stay healthy. However, if you accidentally eat something you are allergic to and have a reaction, go to the hospital immediately. To learn more, contact a company like Southern Allergy and Asthma PC  .