Medically reviewed by
Richard E. Collins III, MD
Did you know that 1 in 13 children have food allergies? Both new parents and parents with young children should be aware of the prevalence of food allergies because of their potential to cause serious reactions.
Food allergies run the gamut from a mild reaction to a severe reaction that could be life-threatening. Yet, determining if your child has a food allergy and narrowing down the foods your child may be allergic to can be tough. Learn about common food allergies, their symptoms, and conditions commonly confused with food allergies below.
Common Foods That Cause Allergies
While allergic reactions might come from an incredible number of proteins, virtually all (90 percent) come from just eight foods. The most common food allergens are:
- Milk (most prevalent)
- Eggs (most prevalent)
- Peanuts (most prevalent)
- Tree nuts (such as walnuts, pistachios, pecans, cashews)
- Shellfish
- Fish
- Soy
- Wheat
Timing and Development of Food Allergies
Most allergic food reactions show themselves within the first two hours of consuming the offending allergen — frequently they start within just minutes of eating. Rarely, some children have delayed reactions of six hours or longer. The delay occurs most often in kids with eczema.
For most parents, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Many children outgrow their food allergies by the age of five. Estimates are that 80% to 90% of kids outgrow milk, egg, soy, and wheat allergies. Certain allergies are more stubborn and will stay with your child during adulthood. Nut allergies and seafood allergies tend to be more permanent, but one in five kids with a peanut allergy become non-allergic.
Symptoms of Food Allergies in Children
Food allergies are activated when your child’s immune system improperly overreacts to a food or a substance in food. This error causes an inappropriate protective response. Symptoms range from very mild (hardly noticeable) to life-threatening (anaphylactic shock). Allergic reaction attacks can involve a child’s:
- Skin
- Gastrointestinal tract
- Respiratory tract
- Cardiovascular system
Common Food Allergy Symptoms in Kids Include:
Breathing Issues
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Tightness of the throat
- Wheezing
- Sneezing
- Repetitive cough
Stomach Issues
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
Skin Problems
- Itchy skin rashes, such as eczema (also called atopic dermatitis)
- Hives (red spots that look like mosquito bites)
- Swelling
- Pale skin
Other Symptoms
- Loss of consciousness
- Light-headedness
- Tightening of the throat, hoarseness, trouble swallowing
- Shock or circulatory collapse
- Feeling faint or dizzy
- Anaphylaxis
Conditions Often Confused with Food Allergies
Not every reaction is a food allergy. Common situations that can be confused for an allergy include:
- Drug effects: Certain ingredients, such as caffeine found in soda or candy, can make your child shaky or restless
- Skin irritations: Often thought to be a sign of a food allergy, but usually caused by acid found in items such as orange juice or tomato
- Food Poisoning: Causes vomiting or diarrhea, typically from bacteria in undercooked or spoiled food
- Diarrhea: Small children can have diarrhea often associated with too much sugar, commonly from fruit drinks
Prevention During Pregnancy and Early Childhood
Experts who research the development of child allergies recommend pregnant women eat a Mediterranean Diet which includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains, and nuts. This diet is proven in many studies to help curb the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes.
However, doctors strongly urge pregnant women to avoid:
- Raw meat of any kind
- Certain fish
- Soft cheeses
- Raw Eggs
- Unpasteurized milk
- Unpasteurized juice (including fresh-squeezed)
Once your baby is born and you begin introducing new foods, do so as early as possible, as this may help reduce food allergies and lessens the likelihood of your child becoming a fussy eater. For specific guidance on peanut introduction, see our article on peanut butter allergies in babies.
Managing Your Child's Food Allergies
If you are unsure if your child has a food allergy, it’s always a good idea to see an allergist and have them tested. Knowing that your child has an allergy, especially if it is severe, will help you protect them from any potential complications.
The most effective way to avoid reactions to known food allergens is to avoid serving them to your allergic child. Always carefully check food ingredient labels before bringing something home. Learn all the pertinent foods to avoid and their interchangeable terms.
Treatment for Food Allergies in Kids in Charlotte
Carolina Asthma & Allergy Center has been serving the Charlotte area since 1952. Each physician in our practice is board-certified in Allergy & Immunology and committed to educating our patients and their parents to improve quality of life while maintaining our high standards of care and expertise.
We help patients breathe, live and ultimately thrive by effectively treating allergy and asthma challenges. With 16 locations for our patient’s convenience, we’re ready to help. Contact us to make an appointment at an office near you.
