The Scoop On Food Allergies

Written By Angela Andrews, MD

Your immune system retaliates against you —over peanuts?!
That’s the reality for people with food allergies, where even a tiny bite can trigger a powerful immune reaction. These are not just “tummy troubles”—they’re potentially life-threatening.

🔎 Common food allergies:

  • Peanuts

  • Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts)

  • Shellfish (shrimp, crab)

  • Fish (salmon, tuna)

  • Milk

  • Eggs

  • Soy

  • Wheat

⚠️ Symptoms may include:

  • Hives or an itchy rash

  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat

  • Vomiting or diarrhea

  • Shortness of breath

  • Anaphylaxis (emergency!)

👉If you’ve experienced any of these signs, don’t guess. Test.

And make sure you have an EpiPen!

Angela Andrews, MD
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Food Allergy, Intolerance, or Sensitivity? How to Tell the Difference—and Why It Matters