Obviously, peanuts and tree nuts are not the same thing, and you can be allergic to one and tolerate the other, but it is also very common to be allergic to both. In addition, they are combined here because the nutritional concerns that come with needing to avoid peanuts and/or tree nuts are the same as are the remedies.
Peanuts are the most common food cause of anaphylaxis, a multisystem life threatening allergic reaction. Anaphylactic reactions can include hives, severe swelling that can contribute to trouble breathing, the throat closing, rapid pulse and drop in blood pressure, dizziness, etc. Reactions can be triggered by eating, contacting, or inhaling peanut, so it is important to avoid any exposure to peanuts. It is important to note that delaying introducing peanuts (or any allergenic foods) to babies does NOT prevent allergies and can contribute to not gaining tolerance to those foods and more severe allergic reactions in the future.
Peanuts show up in many foods including baked goods, granola bars, sauces and dressings, nougat, chocolate dishes, and many more. Always check food labels for peanuts if you have a peanut allergy.
Tree nuts, like cashews, pistachios, almonds, pecans, brazil nuts, etc. can cause similar reactions and also require vigilance to avoid. They often show up in baked goods, sauces, veggie burgers, etc. Again, always check nutrition labels for tree nuts if you have a tree nut allergy.
What to Eat
Avoiding peanuts and tree nuts can contribute to deficiencies in protein, magnesium, manganese, biotin, copper, niacin, and chromium, all of which are important for the structure and function of your body. To ensure you are getting enough of these nutrients, be sure in include plenty of meat, fish, poultry, legumes (if tolerated), dairy , whole grains, vegetables, oils, soybean (if tolerated), eggs, fruit, and leafy greens.
Do you or your child have a peanut or tree nut allergy and need help with finding foods that are safe and taste good? Check out the What Can I Eat with Nut Allergy? recipe book.
For personalized help eating well with food allergies through one on one telehealth sessions, get started with personalized nutrition care? Click here to book your first session. It may even be covered by your insurance!
To Your Health and Harmony,
-Julie Badowski, MS, Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) Candidate.
§https://www.allergychoices.com/blog/replacing-lost-nutrients-due-to-food-allergies/
I am not a doctor. The information contained on this Website are for educational and informational purposes only. The information contained on this Website and the resources available for download through this website is not intended as, and shall not be understood or construed medical or health advice.
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