Living with food allergies and alternative schemes Food allergies put an important brake on life in general because, depending on your allergic reaction, bad food can be fatal. With all the preservatives and flavorings in foods now, it may be difficult to identify what you may be allergic to because it will be clearly marked on the package. Cooking is also a challenge, because if you are allergic to corn and need something in a recipe for thickening, alternates may be difficult to discern. Here are some healthy food and cooking substitutions for food allergies and current replacement regimes.
Gluten (wheat allergy)
- For cooking (baking), using whipped egg whites or agar-agar.
- Instead of using flour from wheat flour, from corn or rice.
- Soy products are safe for consumption.
- Most milk and milk products are safe, except sour cream, milk chocolate, non-dairy cream, and yogurt.
Soy allergy
- Dairy products are safe for consumption.
- The meat can sometimes contain soy as an extension, as long as soy is not used, most meats are safe.
- Most canned soups and frozen entrees contain soy homemade soups and entrees are most effective.
- There are many condiments that can be annoying, like Worcestershire sauce, malt vinegar, and soy sauce. This will give you the opportunity to experiment with other seasonings and spices to achieve the flavor you want.
Milk allergy (not the same as lactose intolerance)
- Soy or rice based frozen desserts are a good alternative to ice cream.
- Use of milk substitutes for cooking.
- From non-dairy margarine can also be used in recipes calling for butter or margarine.
- Avoid fried foods on them at the restaurant, because the dough usually contains milk products.
- Ensure a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables to supply calcium and other nutrients.
Corn Allergy
- Corn syrup is an important ingredient to avoid, and unfortunately, it is used in many things as a sweetener.
- All food and beverages are not sweetened with corn syrup are safe for consumption.
- In recipes that require a sweetener, fruit juice, honey and maple syrup provide the same alternates.
- For cooking, instead of using corn starch, rice starch use, potatoes or wheat instead.
Vegetarian (ovo-lacto)
- A lacto-ovo vegetarian eats milk and egg products.
- For this plan, no meat products can help provide nutrients such as iron or protein.
- Tofu is a good supply of many nutrients.
- Eggs and dairy products provide B-12 and more protein.
- Dark green vegetables will supply calcium for non-lacto-ovo-vegetarians.
- Whole grains also provide iron.
Vegan Diet
- A vegan does not eat and animal products, then this scheme does not include meat and dairy products.
- Oatmeal, cereal, toast and fruit juice are good food for this scheme, they will be a source of nutrients for the body.
- Lasagna with Tofu is a good alternative to meat lasagna.
- Ice cream, soy is a good option on ice cream from milk.
- Rice with milk and banana muffins contain no animal products and variations of other good food.
Healthy eating with food allergies can be difficult, but certainly not impossible. With lifestyles becoming more popular, organic, grocery stores will certainly maintain a food alternative to the one you are allergic to or choose not to eat. For people with more severe food allergies, your doctor will be able to provide more comprehensive guidelines on life safely with your allergy.
Posted on April 15, 2010.