Can You Develop Food Allergies in Adulthood?
Most of us assume that food allergies show up early in life and that if you didn’t have one as a kid, you’re in the clear. But here’s the surprising truth: you can develop allergies later in life, even to foods you’ve been eating for years without issue.
At The Difference Baker, we know how frustrating (and sometimes scary) it can be to navigate sudden food sensitivities or allergy symptoms as an adult. Whether you’re wondering if your body is reacting to something new, or you’re trying to understand why your favorite food now makes you feel awful, we’re here to help you make sense of it all.
Let’s dig into when food allergies typically develop, why they happen, and how to get the answers and support you need.
When Food Allergies Typically Develop
Food allergies are most commonly diagnosed in childhood, especially allergies to milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish – the “big eight” allergens. In many cases, children may outgrow certain allergies like milk or egg as they get older.
However, studies show that nearly half of adults with food allergies developed at least one of them during adulthood. Shellfish and tree nuts are among the most common culprits for adult-onset food allergies, but other foods can trigger new reactions as well.
Even if you’ve eaten a particular food your whole life without problems, it’s still possible to develop an allergy to it later on. I had to give my husband an EpiPen at a brewery when he was 49, and he was later diagnosed with both a wheat allergy and celiac disease. I wasn’t diagnosed until my mid-20s, and the same was true for our daughter.
Causes of Food Allergies
A food allergy develops when your immune system mistakenly identifies a certain food as harmful and launches an attack. This triggers the release of chemicals like histamine, which can cause symptoms ranging from mild hives to severe anaphylaxis.
While the exact cause isn’t fully understood, several factors may increase your risk of a food allergy, including:
- Family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema
- Changes in your immune system due to illness, aging, or other factors
- Environmental exposures, such as moving to a new region where certain foods are more common
- Cross-reactivity with other allergens like pollen or latex
- Gut health and microbiome changes
How Food Allergies Develop in Adulthood
So, how does an allergy suddenly show up later in life?
Researchers believe that a combination of genetics, environmental triggers, and immune system changes can lead to the late onset of food allergies. For example:
- You may not have been exposed to certain foods often (or at all) in childhood, and your body reacts when you encounter them later.
- Infections, surgeries, or gut health issues might disrupt your immune tolerance to foods.
- Hormonal changes, stress, or autoimmune conditions can also play a role.
It’s important to note that not every food reaction is a true allergy. Sometimes, adult-onset food issues are due to intolerances (like lactose intolerance) or sensitivities (such as reactions to certain additives), which involve different mechanisms than an immune-triggered allergy. This is why proper testing and diagnosis are key!
How to Get Tested for Food Allergies
If you’re experiencing symptoms like hives, itching, stomach pain, swelling, or trouble breathing after eating certain foods, don’t try to self-diagnose! Food allergy testing can help pinpoint what’s really going on and keep you safe.
If you suspect a food allergy, the first step is to talk with your doctor or allergist. They can recommend the best testing method based on your symptoms.
Common testing options include:
1. Elimination Diet
With an elimination diet, suspected foods are temporarily removed from your diet, then slowly reintroduced to identify reactions. This approach allows you to observe how your body responds to specific foods in real time.
2. Blood Test (IgE Test)
The IgE test measures allergy-related antibodies in your blood to detect potential allergens. It’s a simple blood draw and can be especially helpful when skin testing isn’t an option.
3. Skin Testing
Skin testing can include methods such as skin prick, intradermal, or patch testing, where small amounts of allergens are applied to or injected into the skin to check for reactions. Skin testing is often used to test for multiple allergens at once and can provide quick results.
How to Effectively Manage Food Allergies
If you’ve been diagnosed with a food allergy, the first and most important step is to avoid the trigger food. Of course, that’s not always as simple as it sounds – especially when your allergen is a common ingredient like wheat, dairy, or eggs that can show up in unexpected places. But with a little planning and awareness, managing food allergies can feel much more doable.
Here are top tips for managing food allergies effectively:
1. Read Labels Carefully
Always check ingredient lists, even on foods you’ve purchased before, as recipes can change. Take extra care with packaged or processed foods, as hidden allergens can sometimes appear under unfamiliar names.
2. Communicate When Dining Out
Don’t be afraid to ask questions at restaurants or bakeries. Let staff know about your allergy and ask how foods are prepared to ensure there’s no risk of cross-contact in the kitchen.
3. Carry Emergency Medication
If prescribed, keep an epinephrine auto-injector with you at all times, and make sure friends, family, or coworkers know how to use it. Acting quickly in the event of an allergic reaction can be life-saving, so preparation is key!
4. Find Safe Alternatives
Look for certified gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, or allergen-friendly options like the ones we offer at The Difference Baker. Having delicious and safe options on hand can help reduce stress and keep mealtimes enjoyable.
5. Stay Informed and Advocate for Yourself
Be sure to surround yourself with support, stay connected to reliable information, and don’t hesitate to speak up about your needs in any environment!