(FAR) Food Allergies and Restrictions Module Overview

Food Allergies and Restrictions Module Overview

Introduction

Food Allergies ImageCall 911. "It is an emergency, my child cannot breathe. He just ate a product with nuts and he is highly allergic." This is a call that no parent wants to make. Unfortunately, food allergies are becoming more and more prevalent in today's society. Many people, like diabetics, have eating recommendations but few people have restrictions. However, individuals who have allergies to eggs, fish, wheat, milk, peanuts, shellfish, soy, and tree nuts cannot ingest or sometimes even be in the room with these products. Other people have food intolerances which can produce a negative digestive response, but not to the extent of an allergy. Unfortunately, choosing a certain food can be a life or death choice for some people. In this module, we will learn about these restrictions and how to live a healthy life with allergies.

Food allergies can cause many serious problems and even death. Allergies are an immune system response to food ingested, put on the skin, and even vapors that are inhaled. Some symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, runny nose, swelling of the mouth and esophagus, shortness of breath, cardiac distress and even death. While allergies can be life threatening, food intolerance or sensitivity can cause stress to the immune system as well. Refraining from certain foods, reading food labels, and bringing food items from home, can help prevent a reaction. Allergy shots can build up tolerance in the immune system. An epi-pen can prevent and stop severe reactions. Dial 911 when experiencing a severe reaction; it is imperative so that a professional can monitor the individual.

 

Essential Questions

  1. What are the main 8 food items that may cause an allergic reaction?
  2. To what body system are allergies related?
  3. What are some responses or results of food allergies?
  4. Why do restaurants list many of their ingredients on the menu?
  5. What is Celiac disease and how does it affect the eating habits of an individual?
  6. What are some ways to determine that one might have a food allergy?
  7. What are some precautions a teacher may take with a student who has severe food allergies?

 

Key Terms

  1. Allergy - an abnormal immune response to an otherwise harmless substance
  2. Enzymes - proteins that drive chemical change in the body
  3. Eczema - is a chronic skin disorder that involves scaly and itchy rashes
  4. Anaphylaxis - a severe, life threatening allergic reaction
  5. Immune System - The body's defense system or a system of cells, proteins, tissues, and organs that protect against germs and microorganisms
  6. Diagnose - to identify the cause of a problem or disease

 

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