Peanut Butter - Delicious but potentially harmful for some people
Peanut butter is one of America’s favorite foods and is found in most homes, so many in fact, it is considered a staple like bread and milk. It is a common favorite of kids, although strangely enough, my kids don’t like it. My seven year old daughter just recently tried it again after several years and will eat it, but my son still won’t eat it. My youngest has asthma and may have some food allergies, so we avoid peanut butter for her.
Food allergies, are the immune system’s response to an otherwise harmless food. Food allergies are rare, with only one to two percent of the American population of adults suffering from food allergies. The most common and severe food allergies are caused by milk, eggs, walnuts, almonds, cashews, wheat, fish, shellfish, and peanuts (including peanut butter). Experts estimate that between five and eight percent of American children may have a food allergy, with the most common being milk and eggs, which children usually outgrow. However, an allergy to peanuts is usually lifelong, as well as allergies to fish and shellfish.
It is important to recognize the symptoms of a peanut butter allergy. Most people have mild reactions; however, some can be life threatening. Symptoms can include varying degrees of hives, swelling of the throat, difficulty breathing and vomiting. A small number of food allergy sufferers are susceptible to severe anaphylactic shock and death. Anaphylaxis can constrict the airways in the lungs, severely lower blood pressure, and swell the tongue or throat, among other symptoms. Anaphylaxis is rare, but can be fatal if not treated immediately. It can be caused by foods, insect stings and medications.
It is very important to consult an allergist if you think you or someone in your family has a food allergy. Allergists can accurately diagnose the allergy and prescribe medication for its treatment.
There is currently no treatment to prevent a food allergy reaction—the only certain way to prevent a reaction is strict avoidance. Individuals with food allergies must read food labels carefully. When eating food prepared by others either in a restaurant or in someone else’s home, food allergy sufferers must ask about the ingredients and preparation of the food before eating.
Those with a peanut butter or other food allergy should always carry self-injectable epinephrine in the event that a reaction does occur, which will make symptoms subside until medical treatment is available. The real danger for peanut butter allergy sufferers is the accidental consumption of peanuts, peanut butter, and other products, although mild reactions may occur if peanuts come into contact with the skin.
While it is certainly scary that such a popular and well-loved food (especially by children) can be potentially harmful, it shouldn’t keep us away from enjoying peanut butter. Peanut butter is a very nutritious and satisfying food that can and should be enjoyed in delicious recipes, in a sandwich with jelly or even on its own!
If you have any questions regarding a potential peanut butter or food allergy in your family, contact your doctor. You can also search online for more information.