Today I’m going to cover off how to cook safely for children with allergies. Allergies come in all shapes and sizes, from certain fruits, to peanuts and salts.
Here I’m going to cover off everything needed to ensure you cook safely and surely, and ensure none of the allergens can get near your child when you cook.
Here are some tips to help you cook safely for people with allergies:
- Read ingredient labels carefully: Carefully read all ingredient labels to ensure that the food does not contain any allergens. Many packaged foods have clear allergy labeling on the packaging. If you’re unsure if a product is safe, it’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid it altogether.
- Avoid cross-contamination: Cross-contamination occurs when allergens come into contact with food that is allergen-free. Use separate utensils, cutting boards, and cookware to avoid cross-contamination. Clean surfaces and utensils thoroughly between uses.
- Use substitutes for allergenic ingredients: There are many substitutes for common allergens, such as dairy, gluten, and nuts. Use these substitutes in your recipes to ensure that the food is safe for people with allergies.
- Inform guests of any allergens: If you are hosting guests with allergies, inform them of any allergens that may be present in the food you are serving. Ask them about their specific needs and make sure you have alternatives available.
- Cook from scratch: Cooking from scratch allows you to control the ingredients used in your dishes. This gives you greater control over the allergens that may be present in the food.
- Wash your hands frequently: Before and during cooking, wash your hands frequently to avoid cross-contamination.
- Have an emergency plan: In case of an allergic reaction, it’s important to have an emergency plan in place. Make sure you have any necessary medications, such as an EpiPen, on hand and know how to use them.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that you are cooking safely for people with allergies.
There are several guides that say taking supplements can help with allergies, so I’m going to cover some of this off too as there is a common misconception that you can treat allergies with supplements.
Some supplements may help alleviate symptoms of allergies, but it’s important to note that supplements should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help support gut health. Some studies suggest that probiotics may help alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce inflammation and histamine levels, which can contribute to allergy symptoms.
Quercetin is a flavonoid that may help reduce inflammation and histamine levels. It can be found in foods such as onions, apples, and berries or taken as a supplement.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory and may help reduce inflammation in the airways, which can help alleviate symptoms of allergies.
Stinging nettle: Stinging nettle is an herb that may help reduce inflammation and histamine levels, which can help alleviate allergy symptoms.
Butterbur: Butterbur is a plant extract that may help reduce inflammation and histamine levels, which can help alleviate allergy symptoms.
It’s important to note that not all supplements are created equal, and some may interact with other medications or have side effects. Always talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure that it’s safe for you and won’t interfere with any other medications you’re taking.
Thank you for reading, and I really hope I helped you figure out a safe and sustainable way to cook safely for your children with allergies.
