What can travelers do to prepare themselves for food allergies when they travel abroad?
Our comprehensive guide to managing food allergies when traveling overseas is here. In my role as a nutritionist and dietician, I have noticed that international travelers are increasingly concerned with maintaining their health while away from home, particularly in relation to food allergies. The purpose of this article is to provide you with practical tips and scientifically-backed advice that will help you manage your food allergies effectively when you're overseas. Now let's get started!
The importance of managing food allergies abroad
Allergies to food are more than just an inconvenience. Food allergies can lead to serious reactions including anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening. Food allergies are responsible for more than 300,000. ambulatory care visits a child under 18 years old each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It's important for travellers to take proactive measures when managing food allergies abroad.
In a foreign land, the unfamiliarity of local food, language barriers and differences in how foods are prepared can increase your risk for accidental exposure to allergens. Preparing for a trip properly can mean the difference between an enjoyable journey and a health emergency.
Get Started with Pre-trip preparations
There are many things that you can do before your journey to ensure a safe trip. Research the local food culture. Learn about the common ingredients in local cuisine, allergens and how food is prepared. Food Allergy Research & Education websites (FARE), for example, offer resources that can help you in this process.
Second, you should learn to express your allergies in the language of the country. It might be useful to have allergy cards available. You can find these cards online. They explain your allergies in several languages.
Prepare for Food Allergies Abroad with These Examples
- Self-injectable Epinephrine is the best treatment to treat anaphylaxis due to food allergies, according a recent study in the Journal of Travel Medicine.
- You can prepare all your meals in the accommodation that has a kitchen.
- Use a translation application: The technology can prove to be an ally. Translating apps will help you to communicate your nutritional needs.
- Talk to your doctor before you travel. Your doctor may give you additional tips or cautions depending on the specific allergy that you have.
- Stock up on non-perishable, safe snacks to have in case you don't find local foods.
- Keep hydrated. Drinking water will help you flush out allergens more quickly, if something is accidentally consumed.
- Select restaurants with care: Choose places where food allergies are well-managed. AllergyEats, for example, provides peer-reviewed reviews of restaurants that are allergy-friendly around the globe.
- Travel Insurance: Make sure your insurance policy covers treatment of allergic reactions.
- Learn how and where you can find local medical assistance.
- Inform airlines of your food allergies. Most airlines accommodate those with allergies to foods if they are notified ahead.
Other Tips
Be flexible, and be patient. With the right attitude and preparation, you will be able to handle any unexpected obstacles. Take care of your health by managing your stress levels, getting enough rest, and exercising.
Conclusion
It may be difficult to manage food allergies while abroad, but it's possible with the right preparation. Understanding your dietary requirements, doing research on your destination and being clear about allergies are the keys to success. This guide should have provided you with some helpful tips for your next vacation. Enjoy your trip!
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