Healthy Eating

Understanding Food Allergies

A food allergy occurs when the body mistakes a food as harmful. An allergic reaction is the body’s immune system fighting back. It is not known why some children develop food allergies. Allergies tend to run in families. Talk about your family history with your doctor to find out if your toddler is at risk.

For more nutrition information and advice on food allergies, call HealthLink BC at 8‑1‑1 to talk to a registered dietitian. Or, talk to the community nutritionist at your local public health office.

Possible Signs of Food Allergy
Food allergy can vary and range from mild to severe. Signs can appear within minutes and often within two hours after exposure to the food. Signs can also occur hours later, but this is less common. The most common signs include hives, redness, and rash. Hives are red blotchy raised bumps that appear on the skin.

Other possible signs of food allergy include:

• Stuffy or runny nose with itchy, watery eyes
• Vomiting, stomach cramps, and diarrhea
• Moderate to severe eczema

Stop giving the food and get medical advice if you are concerned that a food is a causing an allergic reaction in your toddler. Some signs of food allergy require immediate attention.