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FOOD ALLERGY ALERT during the holiday season
the Right Chef
Another issue that can contribute towards the increase in illness during the holiday season is food allergies.
We put so much effort into eating and drinking over the holidays that we often forget to look at what it is that we are actually eating. Dr. Atkins, from the National Jewish Medical and Research Center, states: "Food preparation is an issue for those with food allergies. During the holiday season, it is important to know what's in the food you're eating."
By taking a simple food allergy test, you can identify any allergies or intolerances. This will enable you to avoid illnesses and discomfort caused by eating food to which you may be sensitive.
Some of the most common food allergies are to everyday food items such as eggs, milk, and nuts - ingredients that are found in many foods, particularly around the holiday season. Being unaware that you have an allergy to one or more of these items and then gorging on food that contains copious amounts of them can, at best, cause discomfort.
There are many holiday foods, which you might normally consume large quantities of, that should be avoided if you suffer allergies from these items.
They include:
Some baked goods
Eggnog
Fruitcake
Cheese
Ice cream
Some salad dressings
Some dips
Nuts
To ensure that you maintain you're health and can enjoy the holiday season, a food allergy test is highly recommended. This way, you will know from the offset which foods to avoid, rather than waiting until you've had an allergic reaction and then trying to work out what may have caused it.
Some people have allergies to one or more of the many food additives that are used in convenience foods available today. The holiday season is a particularly popular time for pre-packaged convenience foods containing a variety of additives. Again, without any prior knowledge of possible allergies to these additives, they will be very difficult to avoid.
By having food allergy tests, you can be better prepared for the holiday season. Informing friends and family about your allergy will decrease the risk of you being given inappropriate food that may make you ill. You can also use this information when eating out, by checking which menu items contain the ingredients to which you are allergic. You can then avoid these items and save yourself pain and discomfort.
Conclusion
The holiday season is a time to enjoy yourself, spend time with friends and loved ones, and celebrate. It is a wonderful time of year, but is fraught with health hazards. Stress, over-indulgence in fatty foods, lack of nutrient- and vitamin-rich foods, and food allergies play a large part in the illness and discomfort suffered by many of us during this season.
By taking some simple steps, we can reduce the chances of ill-health over this period, and take the opportunity to truly enjoy ourselves as well as feel great. Tips to help you through the season include:
Balance your diet:
Don't gorge purely on fatty foods; Eat a variety of fruit and vegetables to help boost your immune system
Exercise:
This will raise your mood as well as help to keep off weight
Eat in moderation:
Learn to control portion sizes, particularly over the festive period when much of the food on your plate will be rich and fattening.
Learn to say "NO":
When you are full, stop eating. Don't let others bully you into eating what you don't want.
Moderate alcohol:
There are many calories in alcohol, and you must remember to control your drinking as well as your eating.
Get plenty of rest and sleep:
Don't burn yourself out trying to do everything at once. Take your time to enjoy the festivities and get plenty of sleep.
Take food allergy tests:
Don't fall victim to illness caused by a reaction to food. Be prepared and be aware of any food allergies so that you can eat and drink in safety.
Sources:
Healthy choices for holiday eating
Back on track: Eating sensibly after the holidays
New Habits for the New Year
HOLIDAY HEALTH TIPS
Diet Related Illnesses
Dealing with Holiday Stress: Frequently Asked Questions
Food Allergies Need Extra Attention During the Holiday Season
Stress is at heart of holiday season
Tis the Season
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