A guide to living and thriving with allergies
Allergies have never been more prevalent. In South Africa, one in three people suffer from seasonal allergies and at least 2,5% of children have a food allergy. Allergy is the most common chronic disease in Europe. Up to 20% of patients with allergies struggle daily with the fear of a possible asthma attack, anaphylactic shock, or even death from an allergic reaction. Researchers estimate that up to 15 million Americans have food allergies, including 5,9 million children under the age of 18. That’s one in every 13 children – or roughly two in every classroom. About 30 percent of children with food allergies are allergic to more than one food.
Many parents find themselves paralysed with confusion and fear when faced with a diagnosis of allergies for their child. Information abounds but it is frequently inaccurate and thus may create more confusion. Enter Allergy Sense, a practical guide for living as a family with an allergic child.
This much-needed new title comes from the respected authors of bestselling parenting guide Weaning Sense – Meg Faure, Dr Sarah Karabus and Kath Megaw – and once again combines the formidable knowledge, insights and experience of an occupational therapist, an allergy specialist and a paediatric dietician. Allergy Sense is published by Quivertree and is available in bookstores nationwide and via online outlets from 01 May 2019.
The book provides information and tips on how to live and thrive with allergies and is officially endorsed by the Allergy Foundation of South Africa (AFSA), carrying its Seal of Approval. Allergy Sense will allow readers to sort the science from the noise, by tackling a range of typical allergy issues and questions such as: what causes allergies and how to prevent them; is picky eating allergy-related or a sensory activity; how to protect your child from serious reactions; and so on…
According to Professor Michael Levin, Head of the Paediatric Allergology Division at Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital in Cape Town: “The focus of this book is not how to limit your life due to a food allergy, rather it will help you learn how to live your life to the full. An excellent guide, immensely beneficial for all those living with food allergies.”
In addition to demystifying allergies, the 264-page book includes meal plans and over 70 delicious and foolproof recipes that use simple and inspiring ingredient combinations. These require minimal equipment and boast quick preparation times. The recipes are an accumulation of years of patient consults, support groups and families sharing their best meal options. They have been tried and tested on the world’s toughest critics – kids – and all come up winners! Most of the recipes are adaptable and can be tailored to specific allergies.
Ultimately, parents have the same goal: to settle, nourish and protect their child. This book will help guide parents in meeting these needs with less anxiety and more confidence.
For more information on Allergy Sense please see www.quivertreepublications.com.
