Updated: Dec. 26, 2015 | Originally Published: Oct. 21, 2010
When my daughter Mia was diagnosed with severe allergies to eggs and peanuts, I found myself in tears for weeks. It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed; the reality of food allergies can be daunting. Suddenly, our lives were filled with careful label-checking and avoided cake-filled birthday parties. Even innocent outings to see Santa could turn stressful, as that candy he hands out often lacks labels.
However, here’s a little secret: it’s not all doom and gloom! Mia’s allergies have brought us some unexpected benefits. Here are a few ways our lives have become easier:
- Food Freedom at Events: Movie theaters, amusement parks, and sports games are notorious for their overpriced snacks. Luckily, with Mia’s allergies, we can bring our own food! Not only does it save us money, but it also means we get to enjoy meals we actually like—often much tastier than the overpriced popcorn or greasy fries.
- Bye-Bye Temptations: The local bakery and ice cream parlor are off-limits, which at first seemed sad. But the silver lining? We dodge those extra calories and guilt that come from indulging in too many sweets. Who knew avoiding treats could be a health win?
- No Worries About Recalls: Those recent salmonella outbreaks linked to eggs and peanut butter? Not on our radar! We’ve managed to sidestep the concerns that come with food recalls, giving us one less thing to stress over.
- A Built-in Excuse for Laziness: As parents, we often feel pressured to encourage our kids to try new foods and be polite about it. With Mia’s allergies, I have the perfect excuse when she declines something new. No judgment here—everyone understands it’s about her health!
- Justification for Being Extra Cautious: I admit it; I have a tendency to hover. But with food allergies in the mix, my helicopter parenting has a valid reason! While I gradually give Mia more independence, I can justify my involvement because her allergies require me to be extra attentive.
So, for all the parents out there with kids who don’t have food allergies, don’t envy me too much! Raising a child with allergies has its challenges, and I would happily erase Mia’s allergies if I could. But it’s comforting to know there are some perks to our situation.
For more insights into navigating parenting, you might find this article about what parents without allergies should know helpful.
Summary
While food allergies can present serious challenges, they also come with unexpected advantages that can simplify family life. From cost savings when bringing food to events, to avoiding temptations and unnecessary stress, there are hidden perks that make parenting a little easier.