Facts About Peanut Allergy: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Manage It

What’s the deal with peanut allergies and why is it so common in the US, Canada, and the UK?

Having a peanut allergy is incredibly common. In fact, 1.2% of the US population has a peanut allergy and 2.5 % of babies and children. It’s actually one of the top 8 allergens along with wheat, eggs, and shellfish. Just like wheat or shellfish allergies, mere traces of peanuts can cause a severe reaction.

Symptoms:

• Swelling
• Tightening of the throat
• Shortness of breath
• Vomiting
• Stomach cramps
• Hives or skin rash
• Runny nose

Food allergies are most common in babies and children under the age of 5. In fact, a 2017 study showed that peanut allergies in children increased by 21% in the past 7 years. This might explain why so many schools declare themselves as “nut-free”. However, it is possible to suddenly become allergic to peanuts later on in life. Unfortunately, the exact reason is unknown.

Babies and children who avoid peanuts are 6 times more likely to develop an allergy

Causes

Peanut allergies are rooted in 11 different allergen triggers. Of the 11, 4 cause over 50% of allergic reactions. It’s caused by a hypersensitive immune system that reacts by releasing antibodies. These antibodies are meant to fight the allergen which causes physical symptoms. Essentially the body’s immune system identifies peanuts as an invader and sets up an attack and defense reaction. The exact reasons for this are unknown but they can be linked to a lack of exposure or a general hypersensitive immune system.

Children in underdeveloped countries are much less likely to have a peanut allergy. This is due to early exposure both while the mother is pregnant and during the baby’s early development. Underdeveloped countries have fewer food options and are exposed sooner and more regularly to peanuts.

20% of children with a peanut allergy outgrow it

Risk Factors

The easiest way to tell if a baby or child is at risk for a peanut allergy is to look at their skin. Babies and children who have moderate to severe eczema are at a higher risk of having a peanut allergy. Another way to tell is if they have any other food allergies. Children who already have known food allergies are 40% more likely to also react to other foods. If a person has allergies to wheat or eggs or shellfish they are much more likely to also be allergic to peanuts. Younger siblings of children with peanut allergies also have a greater risk of being allergic as well. 

25% of children with a food allergy are allergic to peanuts

Prevention

It’s without a doubt that peanut allergies are steadily increasing not only in the US but in other Western countries such as Canada and the UK. With peanuts being one of the top 8 allergens it’s natural to want to prevent it.

The best way to do so begins during pregnancy. When a pregnant woman consumes foods like peanuts, wheat, eggs, and shellfish in her regular diet the baby is less likely to become allergic. Of course, this is only safe to do so assuming the mother does not have a peanut allergy herself.

Another way to help prevent peanut allergies is to introduce peanuts to babies at a young age. If they are consuming solid foods between 4-6 months then this is the most ideal time to introduce peanuts. In fact, peanut allergy risk can be reduced by up to 25% with early exposure. Peanut butter is the easiest option at this age. Learn more about keeping babies safe while feeding them peanut butter HERE. Feed your baby peanut butter slowly and only in very small amounts. Allow the baby at least 3-5 days before you give it to them again. This will give the body some time to adjust and show any signs of an allergy. If the baby is allergic bring them to an allergist for more testing and see what they recommend. 

Getting Tested

An allergist can conduct tests to confirm a peanut allergy. They may suggest skin or blood testing to narrow down the allergy and offer personalized recommendations. It’s common for them to advise a slower introduction to peanuts that increase over time. This allows the body the ability to begin recognizing peanuts as food and learn how to process it properly. This method usually entails consuming a tiny amount of peanut butter every few days and progressing from there. It’s always best to seek out professional testing and advice since food allergies are very serious.

There is a 20% chance that you can outgrow a peanut allergy. This is especially true for babies and young children under the age of 5. Once they reach about 6 years old try reintroducing peanuts or peanut butter or get retested. It’s also a good idea to go in for allergen testing every few years to determine if it is still present.

Peanuts are the 2nd most common food allergy for children

Management

Even though it is possible to outgrow a peanut allergy it still needs to be managed properly. Anyone with a known allergy to peanuts needs to be very cautious and communicative about it. Cross-contamination is very real, especially with severe peanut allergies. If you go out to eat let the establishment know about your allergy and to inquire with the kitchen about foods or sauces that contain peanuts or the possibility of cross-contamination. 

Any food product at the grocery store is legally obligated to indicate whether or not it contains peanuts or is manufactured at a facility that processes peanuts. It will be written in bold text to help consumers be aware of product information. 

If you have a severe peanut allergy then it’s a good idea to keep an epi-pen with you at all times. Keep it in your purse, bag, car, or office in case of accidental exposure.