Food Allergy Nutritionists and Dietitians in Chesapeake, VA

A food allergy occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food as a threat and mounts an immune response against it. The severity of food allergies can vary widely, ranging from mild reactions, such as hives or stomach discomfort, to severe cases like anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening condition characterized by a whole-body immune response that can cause symptoms such as swelling of the throat and difficulty breathing. While mild symptoms often resolve on their own, severe reactions may require emergency medical intervention. In such cases, epinephrine is commonly administered to relax the airway muscles and facilitate breathing.

There is little evidence to suggest that food allergies can be cured, and those with severe allergies are often guided to always take significant precaution when consuming foods that could potentially contain or be cross-contaminated with a major allergen. That said, food allergies are more common in children, and many allergies are actually outgrown as a child ages and develops a more robust immune system. Recent research has also suggested that exposure to certain common allergen foods, such as peanuts, early in childhood can reduce the risk the child goes on to develop an allergy to that food in their adult life.

Individuals can identify a food allergy by recognizing symptoms that appear after consuming a specific food. Common symptoms of food allergies include hives, itchy skin or mouth, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and difficulty breathing. These symptoms usually occur immediately after eating the allergenic food, although in rare cases, they can develop more slowly.

Dietitians play a crucial role in assisting individuals with food allergies, especially those with multiple allergies that complicate their ability to maintain a balanced diet. They can help ensure that clients receive all essential nutrients while avoiding foods that could trigger severe allergic reactions. Dietitians are also knowledgeable about which foods pose a high risk of cross-contamination and can advise on strategies to prevent accidental exposure. Additionally, dietitians can help distinguish between food allergies and food intolerances—two related but distinct conditions. Food allergies involve an immune response, while intolerances typically involve digestive issues. Accurate diagnosis of these conditions enables clients to make informed decisions about symptom management and dietary choices.