Living with Peanut Allergy
Manage peanut allergy daily. Avoidance and alternatives.
Calorie calculation examples by profile
Sedentary woman, 30 years old, 143 lbs
Active woman, 30 years old, 143 lbs
Sedentary man, 30 years old, 176 lbs
Active man, 30 years old, 176 lbs
Understanding peanut allergy
Peanut allergy is one of the most severe food allergies. It can cause reactions ranging from hives to potentially fatal anaphylactic shock. Even tiny traces can trigger a reaction in highly sensitive individuals.
Reading labels, vital
Read EVERY label, EVERY time. Formulations change. Look for: 'peanut', 'groundnut', 'peanut oil', but also 'may contain traces of peanuts' or 'made in a facility that processes peanuts'. When in doubt, don't buy it.
Cross-contact, invisible danger
Peanuts can contaminate foods that normally don't contain them: buffets, restaurants, bakeries, ice cream. Even a kiss after eating peanuts can trigger a reaction. Inform those around you.
Have an emergency plan
Always carry your epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen). Wear a medical alert bracelet. Inform family, colleagues, your children's school. Know the signs of a reaction and when to use epinephrine.
Important
Never go below 1200 kcal/day (women) or 1500 kcal/day (men) without medical supervision. Too aggressive a deficit can be dangerous for your health and counterproductive for weight loss.
Guide to Living with Peanut Allergy
IMPORTANT: Peanut allergy can be fatal. This information is educational and does not replace your allergist’s advice. Always carry your epinephrine auto-injector with you.
Peanut allergy requires constant vigilance, but with the right practices, you can live fully and safely.
Foods to Avoid Absolutely
Obvious
- Peanuts and peanut butter
- Peanut oil (except refined per medical advice)
- Pralines, nougat
- Some candies and chocolates
Less obvious
- Asian cuisine (Thai, Vietnamese, Indonesian)
- African cuisine
- Satay sauces
- Some curry pastes
- Frostings and toppings
- Breakfast cereals
Check systematically
- Bakery products
- Ice cream
- Prepared meals
- Sauces and condiments
Daily Management
At home
- Peanut-free kitchen (if severe allergy)
- Separate storage if others consume them
- Rigorous surface cleaning
Outside
- Allergy cards in multiple languages
- Inform restaurant staff
- Avoid buffets and open kitchens
- Bring your own snacks when traveling
Emergency Plan
- Recognize symptoms: itching, swelling, breathing difficulties
- Act fast: use auto-injector at slightest doubt
- Call emergency services: even after using epinephrine
- Safety position: lying down, legs elevated
Mistakes to Avoid
- Trusting verbal assurances: Always verify labels and ingredients
- Forgetting the auto-injector: It must always be on you
- Minimizing symptoms: Better to react too early than too late
- Not informing others: Those around you must know your allergy and how to react
Why Voical Can Help You
With Voical, keep track of your meals and identify safe products. Easily share your food history with your allergist to better manage your condition.