How to Survive the Holidays with Food Allergies

From Halloween through New Year’s Day, the holidays are filled with foods to be avoided by people with food allergies. Children, especially, need to be protected from certain candies and foods that cause allergic reactions. Inform family members and friends of special diet restrictions so that there will be plenty of “safe” food to eat at holiday get-togethers. Prepare allergy-free snacks and meals in advance; freeze or store as much food as possible so that busy work and school schedules don’t erode healthy eating habits.

Eating away from home requires advance planning to prevent potential allergic reactions.  Take time to check restaurant menus before eating out.  Call the restaurant and have the manager help you identify menu items the allergic person can safely eat.  Offer to bring allergen-free dishes that complement meals hosted by friends or relatives.  If you or a family member has food allergies, have an epinephrine injection kit with you at all times because this busy season includes events that almost always feature food to tempting to resist.

Source:  Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America