Peanut Allergy Information
Putting A Peanut Allergy In A Nutshell
"Oh nuts!" "Nutty as a fruitcake!" "A tough nut to crack." I can go on and on about clichés with the word "nut". It's fun to do. But it is not fun if your little one a peanut allergy. A little known fact about peanuts is that it is not a nut. It is actually a legume, which are seeds in a pod. I know, I know, it sounds silly but peanuts are a legume because it holds at least 2 seeds (not nuts) in its pod. They also do not grow on trees like walnuts and almonds. Instead, a peanut becomes a peanut by growing in the ground. This is after the flowers from the peanut plant pollinate itself. It then grows a small stem that goes in the ground. This is where the peanut is formed. The body is a funny thing. When there is a peanut allergy (or any food allergy), the body kind of gets kooky. Instead of it treating a peanut (or any food it's allergic to) like any other food, it reacts as if it is a threat. It will protect itself by releasing antibodies (immunoglobulin E (IgE)), which will release histamine, which cause the allergic reactions like itchiness, hives, and swelling. Unfortunately, there is no cure for a peanut allergy. The only prevention of an allergic reaction is to avoid eating peanuts. This also means being "label savvy". By this I mean you will have to learn all the names of the peanut that may be in foods. Even though food manufacturers have to put the top 8 food allergens on its food label if it was made with them, it is best not to assume. The following are some label ingredients that you may want to keep your little one away from if he/she has a peanut allergy. So to protect your little one, I would recommend staying away with anything that has the word "nut" on its ingredient list. I also recommend staying away with any foods that states, "May contain nuts", "Produced on shared equipment with nuts or peanuts", and/or "Produced in a facility that also processes nuts". Let’s face it. It is better safe than sorry because one severe allergic reaction can kill your little one! Another food you may want to keep your peanut sensitive child from is lupine. Lupine or lupin, is a legume belonging to the same plant family as the peanut. It is used mainly in Europe and South America for flour production and in various types of commercial foods. Cross-contamination can also cause an allergic reaction. So remember that food manufacturers often process different foods. This also goes for food prepared in stores (ex. deli meats and cheeses), as well as restaurants. Some foods that may contain peanuts are: 
Peanuts can be in other things besides food. And non-food products that contain peanuts can also cause an allergic reaction to little ones with a peanut allergy. Mousetraps, roach traps and ant bait stations may contain peanuts. The shells, skins and kernels of peanuts may be used to make a variety of non-food products. For example, craft materials, cosmetics, shampoo, rubber, ink, and stuffing in toys all can be made from peanuts. Unfortunately, peanuts can be in a lot of things. And even microscopic amounts of peanuts can trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive little ones. It could be from just the smell of peanuts, or playing with someone who ate peanuts or peanut butter. So a slip up can happen. So in case of a severe allergic reaction, I think it is a good idea to always have epinephrine on hand for your peanut sensitive little one. And for minor reactions, having antihistamine on hand will also help. The key is to have these items for your little one wherever he/she goes. This includes grandma's and grandpa's house, the babysitter's, the daycare provider's, and even a trip to the grocery store. Make sure to carry the epinephrine injector AND a small bottle of antihistamine with you at all times. Despite the food restrictions, your little one needs to feel that they are just like other kids. You can assure them by YOU not over worrying. Now I am not saying to be carefree, BUT developing sensible coping strategies can help put some fears away. You can do this by the following: Peanuts can be everywhere. And because of this, it can make you feel overwhelmed. But it is ok. There are plenty of places you can go to get “peanut-free” foods. Making out your grocery list?
Here are some peanut-free foods that you can add to your list!
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