The Five Most Common Food Allergens in the United States

Approximately 32 million Americans suffer from food allergies. But, although millions are affected, most allergies are linked to just a few foods. The majority of food allergies (around eight percent) affect children, but approximately five percent of adults have food allergies, too. Maybe you or a child has already been diagnosed with a food allergy, or you might suspect an allergy based on your symptoms. If you suspect a food allergy, schedule food allergy testing Las Vegas to find out for sure. Although any food can cause allergy, these are the most likely culprits.

Milk

Milk allergies are most common in babies and younger children. This is especially true if they have been given cow’s milk before the age of six months. Of all childhood allergies, milk allergies are among the most prevalent. They affect about two to three percent of young children. Luckily, research shows that many children (nearly 90%) outgrow milk allergies by the time they turn three.

Tree Nuts

Tree nut allergies are one of the most common allergies in both adults and children. The family of tree nuts includes cashew, pistachio, hazelnut, almond, walnut, and Brazil nuts. Since nuts are involved in many different foods, either directly or as a byproduct, it’s essential to read all labels if you have a tree nut allergy.

Eggs

Egg allergies are the second most frequently diagnosed allergy in children. As with milk allergies, however, many children outgrow egg allergies by the time they reach their teenage years. Eggs are another product that appears in many foods, which means you’ll need to carefully read all labels to make sure your child stays safe. The best allergy doctor in Las Vegas can also help you figure out foods to avoid and suggest more reliable alternatives.

Peanuts

Peanut allergies are prevalent in Americans of all ages. What is sometimes confusing is the fact that peanuts are not a nut – they’re technically a legume. A peanut allergy is distinct from a tree nut allergy, but sometimes people who are allergic to tree nuts or peanuts are also allergic to the other category. Therefore, it is wise to get food allergy testing Las Vegas to determine if you have multiple nut allergies safely.

Shellfish

Shellfish, also called crustaceans, are another cause of food allergies in the US. People who are allergic to shellfish react to the protein in species within the mollusk and crustacean families. Shellfish includes shrimp, lobster, squid, prawns, and scallops.

Food allergies are quite common. They are also scary. Symptoms vary from mild reactions like itching to life-threatening reactions that can cause anaphylactic shock. To find out if you have a food allergy, or to learn proper allergy management techniques for safety, contact Dr. Tottori by calling (702) 240 4233 or visiting: https://tottoriallergy.com/. The best allergy doctor in Las Vegas looks forward to helping you out!