Corn, Wheat, Soy or Nut Allergy?

A simple side dish can become an allergy sufferer's nightmare

I have learned a lot over the last few months about products that seem safe for those with corn, wheat, soy, or nut allergies.  Many products are developed using corn or add wheat or wheat by-products.  Others are “normal” foods that you may not realize are related to either corn, wheat, soy, or nuts.

Nuts & Soy

My daughter is severly allergic to peanuts and soy.  After her allergy diagnosis we restricted her diet to better control her allergy attacks. During dinner one night I made a kidney bean and brown rice side dish.  She had a severe allergy attack and I was baffled. I looked at her plate desperately trying to figure out what triggered the attacked.  Then it hit me, peanuts are a legume; are kidney beans legumes also?  A quick Google search answered my question.  It may have been an obvious association to some, but not to this everyday Mom.

According to Livestrong.com  “A kidney bean allergy is rare, but you may be at greater risk if you're allergic to other foods in the legume family. Peanuts and soy beans are two of the most common legumes that cause an allergic reaction.” (Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/368375-kidney-beans-and-allergies/#ixzz2MLFkzDpG)
The article on Livestrong.com is a must read for anyone with legume allergies.

Xanthan Gum (used in foods, such as bread, as a gelling agent and thickener)

This substance is made by fermenting corn sugar with a bacteria.  If you have a corn allergy this could become problematic.  If you are a baker with a corn allergy there is a great article on Xanthan Gum substitutes (http://glutenfreegoddess.blogspot.com/2008/12/baking-cooking-substitutions-for-gluten.html)

Wheat & Gluten

Our pediatrician warned me about ingredients that may contain wheat such as whey. According to Livestrong.com, “Certain whey proteins may contain wheat as an added ingredient.” (Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/445889-does-whey-have-gluten-in-it/#ixzz2MLOFtyhX )  

100% whey is usually gluten-free, but be sure that any products containing whey say they are gluten-free. 

Additional resources: http://injust10pages.com/blog/gluten_intolerance_blog/2012/7/12/is-whey-gluten-free/176678#