Friday, April 12, 2013

Peanuts


Peanuts, like soy, are legumes (which is different from nuts and beans).  Peanut allergies have increased dramatically in the last ten years. According to the Mayo Clinic, peanut allergies are one of the most common causes of food-induced anaphylactic reactions.  Anaphylaxis can result in constriction of the airways and a drop in blood pressure.  It can require immediate treatment with Epinephrine-hence the Epi Pen’s presence for some families. 

People with peanut allergies have to be very cautious.  Some people react to foods that have touched peanuts.  Cross contamination is a big concern as food manufacturers will process peanuts in their plants along with seemingly innocent foods.  Many schools are opting to be “peanut free” to avoid possible reactions.  For families who do not have a peanut allergy, this can seem unreasonable.  For families where there is a severe peanut allergy, it hardly feels like enough.

Peanuts and peanut butter seem pretty obvious when you think peanut.  Peanuts are also common in candy bars as well as in marinades used in restaurants.  Ethnic foods, such as Asian and African foods, can contain peanuts or ground peanuts.

Here is a cheat sheet for sources of peanuts.


PLEASE DO NOT CONSIDER THIS MEDICAL ADVICE.  CHECK WITH YOUR DOCTOR ABOUT ANY ALLERGY CONCERNS, NOT WITH A FRIENDLY BLOGGER.

 

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