Thanksgiving Day tips for people with food allergies

Oct 29 2011

Thanksgiving is about family, food and travel. And for the millions of Americans with allergies or asthma, it's about navigating a minefield of triggers, from the pumpkin pie to the dusty guest bedroom.

"A number of holiday-related triggers can make people sneeze, wheeze or, in the case of food allergies, have a more serious reaction," said allergist Dr. Myron Zitt, past president of the Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). "But by planning ahead, the day can go smoothly for people with allergies or asthma."

The ACAAI and its allergist members have several suggestions to help those with food allergies, environmental allergies or asthma avoid unnecessary suffering.

For guests with food allergies, the holiday feast often includes common food allergens such as wheat, soy, dairy and nuts:

•Talking turkey - The centerpiece of the Thanksgiving meal may seem safe, but self-basting turkeys can include soy, wheat and dairy. A natural turkey is your best bet since by law it must contain nothing but turkey and water. Also, be sure the stuffing is made from wheat-free bread.

•On the side - For allergen-free mashed potatoes, swap the milk and butter for chicken broth and margarine. Use corn starch to thicken the gravy instead of wheat flour. And forget about topping the green bean casserole with slivered almonds.

•Now for dessert - Even though pumpkin allergies are rare, America's favorite Thanksgiving pie can cause problems. Be sure to offer alternative desserts. To be on the safe side, suggest guests with serious food allergies bring their own sweet treats.

Watch out for environmental triggers, as well:

•Wash-up woes - Aunt Sophie's fancy guest soap may contain fragrance that can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Use the regular soap or bring your own.

•Problem pets - If you're allergic to furry animals, asking grandma to lock her cat in the basement during your visit will do little if anything to ease your misery. That's because pet dander gets everywhere and is difficult to eradicate. However, you can help yourself by taking symptom-easing medications prior to your visit. An allergist can recommend treatments for your pet allergy, such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants or appropriate asthma medications.

•No rest for the allergic - Dust mites are one of the most common allergy and asthma triggers. To prevent your allergic guests from sneezing all night long, thoroughly dust the extra bedroom and wash bedding in hot water. If you have allergies and are doing the visiting, pack your own pillow or allergen-proof pillow cover.