Advice for All Ages!
Although different advice can apply to different ages, I believe there are some pieces of information that both my family and I would have liked to have known growing up. Joining an organization like FAAN or even a smaller community group can be a great way to get great advice. It is definitely smart to talk with others about their experiences and daily routines. When I first joined some food allergy groups, not only did I meet other families, but I also learned about different foods I could eat. This added so much to my diet.
I have gathered some great pointers from firsthand experiences that you may find useful. When going to the store, always double-check labels every time you purchase an item. The box may look the same, but I have found many ingredients change frequently. Also, most people will only check the “May contain” statement. Although this definitely helps, it is still important to carefully check the actual ingredients. A great idea for lunchtime meals is to pack a plastic baggie with one or two hand wipes to make sure your hands are clean before you touch whatever is in your lunch. If nothing else, it may save you from catching the flu!
For parents and teens, one of the best pieces of advice I have come to acquire would be to always keep a cooler in the back of your car. In the mornings, pack a small meal in case of spontaneous events that you would like to attend. This way, you will be prepared and not have to go hungry. For those families who travel, it is a good idea to ask for a refrigerator and microwave in your hotel room. This will make preparing meals easier.
Editor’s Note: Joining a local food allergy support group for families can be helpful, as you can learn from one another. For more information, check out FAAN’s support group page and its support group look-up tool.
