Food allergies can affect your day-to-day life in ways you might not expect — from the meals you choose to how you breathe and sleep. During Food Allergy Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to learn more about how food allergies affect us and how to manage them safely and confidently.
At Advanced Respiratory Care Network, we offer comprehensive allergy testing and support to help people take control of their health, especially when food triggers may be contributing to respiratory issues, sleep disturbances, or other chronic symptoms.
If you’re navigating food allergies (or think you might have one), keep reading — we’re breaking down the most common culprits and what you can do to avoid them.
What Is a Food Allergy? (And How Is It Different from an Intolerance?)
A food allergy occurs when your immune system mistakenly identifies a food as harmful and launches a defense against it. This reaction can affect your skin, digestive system, airways, or cardiovascular system — and in some cases, it can be life-threatening.
Unlike a food intolerance, which may cause discomfort like bloating or gas, food allergies can result in symptoms such as:
- Itchy skin or hives
- Swelling of the lips, face, or throat
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Digestive issues like nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or fainting
In severe cases, exposure can trigger anaphylaxis, a rapid, life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
The Top 8 Food Allergies in Canada
According to Health Canada, the following eight foods are responsible for the majority of serious allergic reactions:
1. Peanuts
One of the most common and potentially severe allergens. Peanut allergies often appear early in life and can cause life-long sensitivity.
2. Tree Nuts
Includes almonds, cashews, walnuts, pecans, and pistachios. Tree nut allergies are usually lifelong and can be triggered by even trace amounts.
3. Milk
A common allergy in infants and young children. Some outgrow it, but others continue to react into adulthood. Note: this is different from lactose intolerance.
4. Eggs
Egg allergies can affect both the yolk and white, and often presents in children. Like milk, many kids may outgrow it.
5. Wheat
Different from celiac disease, wheat allergies can cause respiratory reactions and digestive symptoms, especially in children.
6. Soy
Often found in processed foods, soy allergies may range from mild to severe and are more common in children.
7. Fish
Fish allergies can develop later in life and often cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.
8. Shellfish
Includes shrimp, crab, lobster, and other crustaceans. Shellfish allergies are among the most common adult-onset food allergies in Canada.
How to Avoid Common Food Allergens
Living with food allergies means being diligent — but with the right steps, you can enjoy meals safely and confidently. Here’s how:
1. Read Ingredient Labels Carefully
- Look for bolded allergen statements (e.g., “contains: milk”).
- Watch out for “may contain” or “processed in a facility that also handles…” warnings.
- Double-check even trusted products, as recipes and suppliers can change.
2. Ask Questions When Dining Out
- Inform staff of your allergy before ordering.
- Ask how food is prepared and if cross-contamination is possible.
- Consider carrying a chef card that lists your allergens clearly.
3. Be Cautious with Packaged and Processed Foods
- Many allergens, like soy or wheat, are hidden in sauces, spice blends, or baked goods.
- Learn the different names allergens can appear under (e.g., casein or whey for milk).
4. Carry an Epinephrine Auto-Injector
- If you’re at risk for anaphylaxis, always have your EpiPen or other auto-injector close by — and know how to use it.
- Inform friends, family, and coworkers about your allergy and emergency protocol.
5. Educate Those Around You
- Whether it’s a child’s school, your workplace, or family gathering, clear communication is key.
- Share your emergency action plan and provide safe snack or meal alternatives.
When to Consider Allergy Testing
Not sure if your symptoms are allergy-related? You might be dealing with more than just a sensitive stomach.
Consider allergy testing if you experience:
- Breathing problems (wheezing, coughing, tight chest) after eating certain foods
- Skin rashes or eczema flare-ups linked to meals
- Chronic nasal congestion or sinus issues
- Sleep disruptions from post-nasal drip or allergy-related asthma
- Digestive symptoms with no clear cause
At ARC Network, our allergy testing services are designed to give you answers — so you can stop guessing and start managing.
Why Get Allergy Testing at ARC Network?
As a trusted respiratory, sleep, and cardiac care clinic, ARC Network offers a comprehensive, personalized approach to allergy testing and management. Here’s what makes us different:
We Test Beyond Just Food
We assess for both food and environmental allergens, because we know that multiple triggers often overlap and affect breathing, sleep, and heart health.
We Understand the Bigger Picture
If you’re experiencing allergy-related asthma, snoring, or chronic sinus issues, our team can help you connect the dots and create a full care plan.
We Offer Support and Equipment
From allergy-friendly sleep therapy gear to humidifiers and air purifiers, our team can recommend medical equipment that supports allergy-sensitive living.
How to Take Action This Food Allergy Awareness Month
Whether you’ve been managing food allergies for years or are just starting to notice symptoms, this is the perfect time to take charge of your health.
Here’s what you can do:
- Avoid trigger foods and stay vigilant with labels.
- Educate your community about allergy safety.
- Book an allergy assessment with ARC Network and get personalized answers.
You Deserve to Breathe Easier, Sleep Better, and Feel Confident with Every Bite.
Let ARC Network support your journey with allergy testing, respiratory care, and the tools you need to live well.
Ready to get started?
Visit our Allergy Services Page or Book an Appointment with one of our trusted professionals today.