Food Allergy: Holiday Tips

All during the year, the possibility exists for people with respiratory problems to suffer from allergy attacks. During the holiday season, more hidden dangers to health exist. Here are some tips for everyone - especially those suffering from asthma, allergies and other respiratory diseases - to stay healthy during the holiday season.

• Be the class baker: Volunteer to provide the snacks for holiday parties at school to ensure there will be foods available your child can enjoy.
• Inform your guests: Let guests know that you or your child have dietary restrictions, and offer to let them bring holiday themed plates, cups or napkins, rather than food.
• Give your host a heads-up: If you'll be attending holiday festivities away from home, let your host know about your food allergy. Offer to bring safe foods for you and others to enjoy.
• Don't overlook the turkey: Basted or self-basting turkeys can include common allergens such as soy, wheat and dairy. Your safest bet is choosing a turkey labeled "natural," which by law must be minimally processed, and should contain nothing but turkey and, perhaps, water.
• Hang on to food labels: If you are the host of a holiday feast, keep the ingredient labels from the food you are serving for allergic guests to review before digging in.
• Carry medications: Always have emergency medications on hand just in case unrecognized food allergens are hiding in holiday treats.
• Discuss strategies with your allergist: An allergist can help you prepare for the holiday season and suggest allergy avoidance techniques to keep you or your child safe. Your allergist also can help you and your child become "label detectives" so you both know what ingredients to watch out for.