Adverse reaction to food can be split into two categories; food intolerance and food allergy. Food Intolerance, often refered to an allergy is in fact a non-allergic abnormal reaction to food. True food allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to an ordinarily harmless food, and the symptoms can range from mild to severe. Symptoms typically appear within minutes to two hours after the person has come into contact with the food to which they are allergic. In severe cases a life-threatening condition known as anaphylaxis may occur in which patients may experience a drop in blood pressure, that results in a loss of consciousness and shock. Without immediate treatment, anaphylaxis may cause death. Some of the most common food allergens are cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, fish or shellfish and soy. Food allergy is often hereditary and affects about 8% of children and 2% of adults.

Symptoms
Hyperactivity, Feeling flushed, Strange taste or tingling sensation in the mouth, Swelling of the tongue and the throat, Difficulty breathing, Asthma, Skin rash, Distress, Anxiety, Nausea, Vomiting -Stomach cramps, Diarrhea, Feeling light headed or fainting, Sneezing, Atopic dermatitis, Anaphylactic reaction, drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness

Triggers
Eating offending food, Touching offending food, Being near offending food

Treatment
Adrenaline, such as Epi-Haler, Ventolin inhaler, for tight chest symptoms, Antihistimine such as Piriton, Exclusion diets under medical supervision

- Avoiding offending food - Strict avoidance

- Tips for Success
Strict avoidance of the allergy-causing food.
- Check ingredients of all foods and become familiar with technical names for foods.
- Check for cross contamination possibilities through contact with storage containers, baking sheets and utensils, of all homemade items.
- Remember to pack a snack for school parties and outings.
- Be prepared for emergencies.
- Always carry and know how to use injectable epinephrine and antihistamine.
- Wear an identification bracelet that describes the allergy.
- Undergo regular food allergy check-ups under the supervision of an allergist