People often talk about how hard it is to manage food allergies, especially with a list like Sophie's. And it is terribly difficult. When managing food allergies, there are all kinds of steps added to your meal preparation that you wouldn't normally take. For example, reading every label, calling the restaurant or caterer before the meal, being prepared with snacks and treats in case there's nothing that will work or the one safe food gets cross-contaminated. If you didn't have food allergies, would you even know what cross-contamination is? I wouldn't!
And yet, with all of that, managing food allergies is such a simple task compared with so many others. Children with food allergies have literally every physical and educational opportunity that everyone has, unlike children with Downs' Syndrome. Children with food allergies know how to prevent an attack, unlike children with epilepsy. Adults with food allergies typically recover completely after an attack, unlike adults with Multiple Sclerosis. And so, I submit that when compared with other lifelong illnesses, food allergies are indeed a blessing.
I agree. Though it can be a pain in the butt to manage, at least reactions are (mostly) preventable. In every other way, my kids can grow up like everyone else's. It's just a really good thing that I like to cook. :) But yes, if I had to choose between food allergies and the host of other things that can happen to your children...I think I should keep my complaints to myself. :)
ReplyDeleteI completely agree and try to remind myself of this often when things get a bit overwhelming. Thanks for the reminder today!
ReplyDeleteHi Emily, I discovered you about a year ago in BYU Magazine, and have been using your cookbook. Thank you for writing it. I developed food allergies during a pregnancy, and am now nursing a baby with food allergies. I was wondering if you've found a granola/granola bar recipe you like. I need something free of wheat, milk, nuts, chocolate, and coconut. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteHeather W, I do have a granola recipe I like. I haven't worked out a granola bar recipe yet. Please email me at sophiesafe@gmail.com.
ReplyDeleteI have to add that one other blessing of food allergies is that it promotes healthy eating. I often get comments about how well my daughter eats vegetables.
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