Salicylates

It's been a few weeks since I've posted as we were out of town, and quite frankly I need a break from the allergy world from time-to-time.  Although it's impossible to fully escape it at this point, we're getting closer.  There were a few reactions while out of town.  It's clear that my son has an issue with processed meat as he reacted to conventional pepperoni and mild italian sausage.  He does fine with certain brands like Applegate Farms pepperoni and Whole Foods sausage, but breaks out in hives to the regular stuff.  I'm thinking there's an issue with nitrates, so that's on our list of things to treat for.  He also got a hold of a juice box with splenda, which he's never had before.  I totally detest artificial sweeteners, but I had left without his Honest Kids juice box and all the other kids had one so I caved--immediate hives.


The good news is that he ate plenty of broccoli without issue after I did a home treatment (we have a long history with broccoli, my kid's most favorite food in the world.)  I also attempted to treat him for blueberries and cumin which we have yet to try.


Our last treatment was for Salicylates, as they're natural chemicals found in most fruits, vegetables, and various other food and non-food items.  According to this WebMD site, Some people have a low level of tolerance to salicylates and may have reactions if more than a small amount is consumed at one time. Symptoms of a salicylate allergy vary but may include:

• Asthma-like symptoms, such as trouble breathing and wheezing
• Headaches
• Nasal congestion
• Changes in skin color
• Itching, skin rash, or hives
• Swelling of the hands, feet, and face
• Stomach pain

In severe cases, a salicylate allergy can lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction involving a severe drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, and organ system failure. Avoiding products that contain salicylates is the best defense against an allergic reaction--I'm hoping NAET is actually the BEST defense!