[.ca] Food Allergy Survival Guide: Surviving and Thriving with ... (ISBN 157067163X)

Review by Brenda, Registered Dietitian:
Food Allergy Survival Guide There's a new book on the market that combines scientifically-based information on food sensitivities with recipes that are entirely free of the major allergens. Food Allergy Survival Guide will be welcomed by: - those with wheat or gluten sensitivity who wants tasty baked goods; - people wanting guidance in meeting calcium needs without dairy products; - vegetarians who wish to avoid soy; - those with multiple food sensitivities; - parents who wish to decrease the risk of food allergies in their children; - people who need to improve their intestinal health; - individuals who may find a link between conditions such as arthritis, asthma, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Candida, depression, dermatitis, digestive disorders, fatigue, or headaches and their diet; - those who want to be well nourished despite their allergies. Food Allergy Survival Guide provides basic information on food sensitivities, insight into the various types of allergy testing, along with tremendously helpful tips for cooking, shopping, nutrition planning, and managing the emotional aspects of food sensitivities. It is designed for families that include adults or children with food sensitivities, and includes tips on how to decrease the risk of allergies developing in the first place. This book is a treasure for those with multiple food sensitivities. It provides extensive information and an excellent collection of recipes for those with sensitivities to dairy products, eggs, gluten, tree nuts, peanuts, soy, yeast, fish and shellfish, and wheat. Recipes, which comprise half of the book, include hearty and appealing breakfasts without eggs; numerous lunch box tips; soy-free entrées and spreads; and celebration foods. The gluten-free baked goods (such as scones and pumpkin spice bread) are appetizing and nutritious. A detailed nutritional analysis follows each recipe in the book, providing reassurance for those with special dietary needs. The book includes an extensive resource list that is useful for tracking down less common ingredients and learning more about specific allergies. If you or someone you care about has food sensitivities, this book offers practical and appealing solutions.

A Lifesaver!:
I have been waiting for a book like this to come out, and it seems that someone heard my prayers. This book helped my friends, family, and colleagues understand that my allergies are not "all in my head" -- they are very real and can have very serious consequences. It's also provided them with ways to support me. Now they can go grocery shopping for me because they know how to read product labels and look for "hidden" allergens. They are more patient with me when we go out to eat. They know how to prepare safe meals when I visit. They know what alternative ingredients they can use in recipes. And, they have lots and lots of wonderful, allergy-safe recipes to choose from, because this book provides a huge variety of them (the recipes comprise about half of the book!). The authors include a recipe for a baking mix that is incredible and very adaptable (no matter what you are allergic to, you can use this mix!). The baking section alone is worth the cost of the book. Well, so is the section on Great Seasonings and Spice Mixes. Even if you're stuck just eating boiled rice and veggies (because you can't tolerate anything else), all of these seasoning mixes will make you feel like you're eating something gourmet. There are also great ideas for breakfast (that's been a perpetual challenge for me, and the book has helped me sort it out!), lunch (yes, it's possible to enjoy a "sandwich" even if you can't have gluten!), and main dishes, along with soups, salads, and heavenly desserts. The "Baked Potato" page is awesome -- it has about three weeks' worth of ideas! There is an extensive resource section, too, so you can find where to buy safe products and supplements. The book has an excellent index (one of my top criteria for measuring a good book). The layout is intuitive to follow and the type is easy on the eyes. Read through the book once, then try all the recipes, then keep it handy as a reference (and get a second book to keep in the kitchen!). If you or anyone you know has food allergies or intolerances, Food Allergy Survival Guide is a MUST.