A food allergy occurs when the immune system causes a reaction to the consumption of a particular food. Symptoms may occur immediately or may take some time. The article explains the different types and main triggers of allergies of food allergies.

Food allergies
It is believed that up to 4% of adults are allergic to some food or other. This is more so in the case of children. The protein that a certain food contains may be treated by the immune system as a harmful substance. This leads to the release of histamines that cause an allergic reaction.

Swelling of the tongue and mouth, breathing difficulties, itching, rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, and fall in blood pressure are some of the common symptoms of food allergies. In extreme situations, it leads to anaphylaxis, which can make it difficult to breathe and can even cause death if not treated on time.

Types of food allergies
The following are the different types and main triggers of allergies brought about by food:

Allergy to milk
One of the most common allergies, especially in children, is an allergy to cow’s milk. It can cause symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. In extreme cases, it can cause itching and even anaphylaxis. Cow’s milk and all products made from milk like cheese, butter, yogurt, and ice cream can trigger off symptoms.

Peanut allergy
This is one of the most common allergies. Consuming peanuts or any product containing peanut can trigger off allergic reactions that can range from mild to severe. Most people allergic to peanuts may also be allergic to other nuts like cashew nuts, macadamia, walnuts, Brazil nuts, and almonds.

Egg allergy
Egg allergy can occur as a reaction to consuming egg white or egg yolk. Consuming egg whites may not cause a problem in some people, whereas egg yolk can trigger a reaction. The proteins contained in eggs trigger off the allergy. It is a common allergy found in children.

Shellfish
Shellfish like prawns, lobsters, crayfish, squid, and shrimp can trigger off allergic reactions in some people. The protein in these fish may cause an immune reaction. For some people, even the vapors from cooked shellfish can trigger the allergy.

Other foods
There are many other common foods that can cause allergies. While they may be perfectly safe for most people, in others they can trigger an allergic reaction. They include:

• Soy and soy products
• Wheat
• Banana
• Melons
• Cucumber
• Kiwi
• Peach
• Sesame seeds

Treatment for food allergies
The immediate treatment for food allergies is medications like antihistamines to control the reactions. Medicines to stop vomiting and diarrhea are also prescribed. The long-term solution is to identify the foods that are causing a reaction and stopping their consumption. It is also important to check labels on food items to find out if a food you are allergic to is listed on it.

This article on types and main triggers of allergies lists out the common foods causing allergies. If any of these foods trigger a reaction, then you have to stop consuming the food.