Answers to Top US Food Allergy Questions by a Biochemist

Around 33 million people in the United States have food allergies, impacting about 5.8% of children and 10% of adults. Surprisingly, more than half of affected adults have gone through a severe allergic episode.

Given the widespread nature of food allergies in the U.S., it’s understandable that many turn to search engines with countless questions. However, the sheer volume of information available can be both confusing and conflicting, leaving many without the answers they seek.

To assist, Dr. Gill Hart, a biochemist with expertise in food allergies and sensitivities, addresses 12 of the most frequently asked food allergy questions in the United States.

Who is Dr. Gill Hart?

Dr. Gill Hart is an accomplished biochemist who currently serves as the Scientific Director at YorkTest, a company providing at-home tests for food allergies and sensitivities. With over three decades of experience, she has specialized in creating and validating unique diagnostic tests for hospitals and consumer use.

Joining YorkTest in 2005, Dr. Hart has significantly contributed to the company’s growth, assisting numerous individuals in the U.S. and U.K. in identifying their food allergies and sensitivities.

What Are the Most Commonly Queried Food Allergy Questions?

The most searched query is “How to test for food allergies,” which is queried around 1,000 times each month by Americans.

Question 1: How to Test for Food Allergies?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 1,000
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Testing for food allergies can take various forms. An allergy specialist might conduct a skin prick test or an oral food challenge test, both requiring medical oversight. Blood tests are another option, using either a small blood sample from a finger prick or a larger venous sample.”

Question 2: What Causes Food Allergies?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 800
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Food allergies result from an exaggerated immune system response, which can lead to shock. These reactions may vary, with the most severe being anaphylaxis, a life-threatening event.

“Our immune system uses antibodies to combat infections. IgE, an antibody, sometimes mistakenly identifies food proteins as dangerous, triggering the release of chemical immune mediators. These mediators induce allergic reaction symptoms, like airway constriction, swelling, and chest tightness. Blood tests for food allergies typically measure IgE antibody levels.”

Question 3: What is a Food Allergy?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 700
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“A food allergy is an immediate reaction to a food that can be potentially fatal. The immune response causes the body to react as though a safe food is a threat, leading to hyperactivity with possibly life-threatening outcomes.”

Question 4: How Long Does a Food Allergy Last?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 700
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Food allergies often manifest in childhood but can begin in adulthood as well. Once developed in adulthood, a food allergy usually persists for a lifetime, necessitating the avoidance of triggering foods.”

Question 5: What Does a Food Allergy Rash Look Like?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 600
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Typically red, raised, or bumpy, a food allergy rash is also very itchy. If consumed, the rash can appear on any part of the body that interacts with the allergen, including the lips, tongue, throat, hands, or arms. The inflammation causing the rash can lead to serious swelling.”

Question 6: What is the Most Common Food Allergy?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 350
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“While over 170 foods can trigger allergic reactions, there are nine significant allergens to watch for: peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, milk, eggs, fish, shellfish (crustaceans and molluscs), sesame, and soy.”

Question 7: How Long Do Food Allergy Symptoms Last?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 200
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Once the triggering food is no longer present, symptoms may persist for several hours or days. Severe symptoms will not subside without immediate medical intervention.”

Question 8: What’s the Difference Between a Food Allergy and a Food Intolerance?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 200
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Food allergies provoke an immediate and potentially life-threatening reaction upon contact. In contrast, food intolerances or sensitivities may take hours or days to manifest and generally cause chronic issues like digestive problems, IBS, headaches, migraines, eczema, and fatigue. They do not pose a life-threatening risk.”

Question 9: How to Get Rid of Food Allergies
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 150
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Sometimes, allergies in children diminish as they age, but this isn’t always the case. Unfortunately, there is generally no cure for food allergies. Those affected must avoid foods that trigger reactions.”

Question 10: How Long Does It Take for a Food Allergy to Show Up?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 150
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Symptoms of food allergies can manifest within minutes, often requiring immediate action. In some instances, initial symptoms may subside and then reappear one to four hours later, known as a biphasic reaction.”

Question 11: Why are Food Allergies More Common Now?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 100
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Many theories exist regarding the rise in food allergies. I suspect it is closely linked to the current state of our gut health; after all, 70% of our immune system resides in our guts.

“Our modern diet and food consumption differ greatly from the past. One theory posits that less exposure to microbes and infectious agents during childhood could lead to the body overreacting to normally harmless proteins, resulting in allergies.”

Question 12: What Are the Symptoms of Food Allergies?
Monthly Search Volume: Approximately 100
Dr. Hart’s Response:
“Within minutes of consuming a trigger food, someone with a food allergy might experience swelling of the lips, face, or eyes, itchy skin, and a raised red rash. They could vomit, suffer stomach pain, or have diarrhea. Breathing difficulties, lightheadedness, dizziness, weakness, and a sense that something is wrong can occur. The symptoms progress quickly, necessitating medical attention.”

Final Considerations

Navigating food allergies can be daunting, but understanding the facts is crucial. Whether you’re managing your food allergy or supporting someone with one, remember you’re not alone—millions face the same challenges. By staying informed and adopting the right precautions, you can effectively manage your allergies and focus on enjoying life’s other aspects.

For more guidance on handling allergies and sensitivities, explore the YorkTest blog for expert advice on understanding your symptoms.