Paper On Food Allergies

In the world there is anywhere from 4 to 8 percent of people that have food allergies. Food Allergies affect over 60 million people in the United States. One in thirteen children have a food allergy. Food allergies are a rising epidemic. Food allergies have increased dramatically in the last 20 years. Food allergies affect children and adults of all races and ethnicity. A food allergy can begin at any age (James Baker). Food allergies have many effects on a person. Food allergies affect a person physically and mentally. Food allergies affect a person negatively physically and socially.

Food allergies affect a person physically. Food allergies are considered chronic diseases. Food allergies are usually genetic. If you have a parent who has a food allergy you are more likely to have a food allergy. Feeding solid foods to babies could cause allergies later in life. Allergens cause your body to produce antibodies. These antibodies are used to identify and destroy dangerous invaders. The immune system triggers a response to an allergen when it is come in contact with or ingested. Antibodies release histamine that cause an allergic reaction (Jacque Wilson). An allergic reaction can happen anywhere from seconds to an hour after the allergen is ingested. The symptoms of an allergic reaction include shortness of breath, chest pain, hives and trouble swallowing. Symptoms of food allergies and the amount of food needed to cause a reaction are different for every person. For some people just being close to their
Food allergies can cause anaphylaxis or in worse cases death. Food allergies can cause bullying, stress and anxiety. This can cause depression for many people with food allergies. Also food allergies can cause financial problems. This affects a person negatively throughout their life. Having a food allergy is a tough battle that most people will have to endure for the rest of their