The following script is part of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) radio series 'A Minute for Kids.' Feel free to use this or other AAP scripts in your local print or broadcast media, and in school or community newsletters. Please attribute the American Academy of Pediatrics as the source. For more scripts on children's health, visit www.aap.org

Food Allergies

Many foods can cause allergic reactions in children. The most common culprits are cow's milk and other dairy products, egg whites, and poultry. Seafood, wheat, nuts, soy protein and chocolate can also cause reactions. Allergic symptoms may include a runny, itchy nose, sneezing and coughing. Children may also have stomach pain, cramping or diarrhea, skin rashes and even facial swelling. These reactions usually occur right after your child eats a certain food, but they can happen hours or even days later. Diagnosing food allergies is difficult. Other medical problems can cause the same symptoms and pinpointing the offending food can be tough so your pediatrician may refer your child to an allergist. Another option is an "elimination diet" that involves removing from your child's diet all the foods you suspect are causing the problem and closely monitoring her to see if her allergic symptoms go away. For more information on your child's health, visit www.aap.org.

Rev 12-1-2006