Many people are bothered by seasonal allergies – sneezing and wheezing when certain pollens roll in. But for those allergic to certain foods (a less common type of allergy) the condition can take on whole new precautions and reactions.

Allergies occur when the body’s immune system reacts abnormally to something in the environment. When these allergic reactions occur in response to a food, the results can be quite dangerous. Recent studies show that food allergies seem to be increasing in children. With this increase, greater public knowledge and information is required. Rates Rising A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology  in 2010 showed that nut allergies among children seem to be on the rise. The study, led by Scott H. Sicherer , MD, surveyed 13,534 people (5,300 household...

In recent years, the idea of a gluten-free diet has grown in popularity. As more people discuss avoiding gluten, celiac disease (which is somewhat like a severe gluten allergy) is becoming the subject of more and more research. What are the effects of this disease and just how common is it? Celiac Simply Put Celiac disease is an immune disorder triggered by gluten, a protein present in foods like wheat, rye and barley. According to an article written by Jocelyn Silvester , MD and Donald Duerksen , MD, and published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal ( CMAJ ), celia...

Baseball may be America's pastime but allergies are preventing some families from going to the games. Luckily, stadiums are becoming friendlier for those with peanut allergies. Most know the lyrics to “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” by Jack Norworth , including the part that goes, “buy me some peanuts and Crackerjacks.” For some families, a peanut allergy can make going to a game impossible. Many teams have recognized this and are offering allergy free trips to the ballgame. Peanut-free Fun at the Ballpark Peanuts are a common snack inside a stadium alongside Crackerj...