Benefits, Food Allergies

Didn’t think there were benefits? It’s all about how you look at it, sugar.

The below statement came from my best friend since first grade, Aimee. Her daughter was recently diagnosed with peanut allergies, asthma and environmental allergies (none of which she, her husband or older daughter Hannah have.)

Unprompted by me, she said that she, “…appreciates that their lives have become less food-focused. They have a healthier attitude and outlook on food. Additionally they have a cleaner diet, with less processed foods.” She called these "...the benefits of food allergies".

Go Aim!

Can you think of some other benefits? Do share.

Comments

Vicki W said…
Honestly, I am grateful that I have food allergies because I believe that food allergies have been hugely beneficial to me:

I eat much healthier in general simply because I have to prepare almost every thing I eat.

I have zero natural will power, food allergies have provided forced will power so my weight stays in check.

I know my body better so I am able to more accurately identify when I have a medical issue needing doctors care and when it's simply because of something I put in my body. I believe that a lot of people have food issues that they, and their doctors, are seeing as independent medical issues (eczema, migraines, IBS.....) and treating as such. I am NOT implying that all migraines (or whatever) are food related, but I believe that many are. I'm fortunate that I know mine so I am not being medicated in addition to poisoning myself.
Great topic! Discovering my food allergies has changed my life for the better...let me count the ways.

1. I have never felt (or looked) better in my life. All the years of allergic stresses in my body are gone and it shows.

2. I am much more aware of my body and how it reacts to my environment. As a result, I can manage my mental and physical health easily and feel great most of the time!

3. Having food allergies has opened up a new creative streak in me. Much like learning photography makes you look at details in a new way, I now look at food construction and different cuisines in a whole new light.

4. The need to be experimental and figure my stuff out has exposed me to new ideas out there -- culinary, environmental, scientific and spiritual -- and I'm learning new stuff every day. I'm an information junkie and am constantly excited about how much good stuff there is to learn.

5. I get to share what I've learned with other people who may not have the same resources that I do. It's a great feeling, helping someone out who need help! Especially when I've been their shoes. :)

6. Lastly, I've met some of the coolest people in the food allergy community (including lovely hostess Sloane) who are passionately sharing what they know to help make life easier for others. Yay!
Jenny said…
I would agree with everything your friend says. I will also say this: as a parent, you will someday learn you can't control everything about your child. For parents of kids with severe food allergies, you learn that early on. This has unexpected benefits such as appreciating the little things in life, celebrating your child when things go well with their health after a high-risk situation (restaurants, holidays) and generally being more compassionate to other people.
Jenny said…
I would agree with everything your friend says. I will also say this: as a parent, you will someday learn you can't control everything about your child. For parents of kids with severe food allergies, you learn that early on. This has unexpected benefits such as appreciating the little things in life, celebrating your child when things go well with their health after a high-risk situation (restaurants, holidays) and generally being more compassionate to other people.

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