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Low-Allergen Diet

Also indexed as:Allergy (Low) Diet, Elimination Diet, Hypoallergenic Diet
Low-Allergen Diet: Main Image

The Basics

For people with food allergies, the only way to get relief from symptoms is by avoiding the offending foods altogether. However, many people simply have sensitivities or intolerances to certain foods. These people can benefit from avoiding certain foods for a period of time, and by then following a “rotation” diet, where they eat the problem foods every few days instead of every day.

The diet has several phases:

  • Take a break—Once dieters know what foods they may be sensitive to, they avoid eating them for a prescribed period of time.
  • Try a rotation plan—Offending foods are reintroduced on a rotation plan where they are eaten anywhere from once every few days to once a week. This gives the body a chance to clear the problem food before it is eaten again.
  • Quit cold turkey—Sufferers of fixed food allergies, where the problem food causes a reaction every time it is eaten, must avoid the food altogether.

Avoiding allergies? Talk to a physician or health care professional trained in recognizing food allergies. Learn how often to rotate in your problem foods. Research alternatives or substitutes for these foods so you don’t feel deprived and can stick to the diet. See best bets list below for suggestions.

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The information presented by TraceGains is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. Self-treatment is not recommended for life-threatening conditions that require medical treatment under a doctor's care. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2024.