November 2022

This month's featured commodity is canned pink salmon

November 2022 Tidbits Newsletter
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Food Allergies

Food allergies can be very serious. If you have a food allergy, you cannot eat any of the food that you are allergic to. A food allergy affects your immune system, and it can make you very sick. For example, a food allergy might cause trouble breathing, itchy skin, vomiting, or other problems. Food allergies can be deadly for some people, so if you have a food allergy, it is very important to talk with your doctor and make sure you know what to do.

A food intolerance is different from an allergy. A food intolerance does not involve the immune system; it happens when your body has trouble digesting a certain food. If you eat a food that you are intolerant to, it can cause problems like stomachache, heartburn, bloating, gas, or diarrhea. You may still be able to eat small amounts of the food if you have an intolerance.

It is important to be aware of cross contamination when cooking for someone with a food allergy. Using an unwashed knife used to spread peanut butter to later prepare food for someone with a peanut allergy can have deadly results. When preparing food for yourself or anyone else with an allergy, ensure safe foods are not contaminated by utensils, cutting boards, plates, etc. that were exposed to allergens.

Overall, it is very important to stay away from any foods that you are allergic to. Otherwise, eating a variety of fresh and natural foods can be a good way to help keep intolerances down.

Learn more in this month's edition of Tidbits.

Reprinted from materials provided by the Michigan Department of Education Household Nutrition Programs. The material provided is intended to be used as general information only and should not replace the advice of your physician. Always consult your physician for individual medical care.