Peanuts: Good for Many, Dangerous for Others

by Paulette Avery RN, MSN

The average American eats about three pounds of peanut butter a year. Although just a few years ago peanut butter was a healthy-diet "no-no," today experts recommend it in moderation as an excellent source of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, the "good-for-you" fats. But for the growing number of people with peanut allergies, peanuts in any form can be dangerous, even fatal. Because peanut allergies are on the increase, exposure to peanuts has become a major concern for parents, schools, even the airline industry.

Only about two percent of adults have a true food allergy of any kind. Many others actually have a food intolerance with a reaction such as an upset stomach. Those with true food allergies react with swelling, rashes, and blood pressure or breathing problems.

According to an article by Patricia L. Jackson, published in Pediatric Nursing in 2002, more than one percent of Americans are allergic to peanuts, tree nuts, or both. These allergies usually develop early in childhood, with about 20 percent of the affected children eventually outgrowing the allergy.

Although the number of people with peanut allergies is rising, the reason for this is not clear. One theory is that the rise is due to a general increase in allergies worldwide. It is known that children with asthma, other food allergies, or a family history of peanut allergies are more likely to develop peanut allergies. Another possibility is that more babies are being exposed to peanut protein through breast milk, a theory that would help explain why most children with peanut allergy react on their first known exposure to peanuts. Another possible explanation involves the way peanuts are processed. In North America, peanuts are roasted, while in China, they are boiled. Eating peanuts is very common in China, yet peanut allergies are rare. Apparently roasting increases the strength of a major peanut allergen, while boiling does not have this effect.

Most often, children allergic to peanuts experience their first episode of symptoms by age two, usually at home, and the reaction appears within minutes of exposure.

If you or your child is allergic to peanuts, of course you want to do all you can to avoid exposure. Be aware that most commonly accidental exposure occurs at restaurants, bakeries, or ice cream shops. Learn to read food labels carefully for the presence of peanuts, peanut oil, or extracts. It is also very important to educate other adults who care for your child about peanut allergy, how to recognize the symptoms, and the importance of seeking or providing appropriate medical care when a reaction is suspected.

As a lactation consultant, I'm not telling all nursing mothers to avoid peanuts while breast-feeding. However, if there is a family history of tree nut or peanut allergies, it may be wise to avoid these foods during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

For further information, check the Web site of the Food Allergy and Anaphylactic Network, at www.foodallergy.org, or call them at (800) 929-4040.

Paulette Avery is a registered nurse and a freelance writer specializing in health issues.