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It's easy to get answers about health and nutrition! Just send your question by email to [email protected] and Dr. Harlan will respond to selected questions of general interest. Answers will be posted in the Ask Dr. Gourmet newsletter (sign up now!) and archived in the Ask Dr. Gourmet section of the website.

Please note that the Ask Dr. Gourmet feature is restricted to questions regarding food and nutrition. Due to the many questions we receive, not all questions may be answered. For more specific questions about your individual health, please contact your doctor. About Timothy S. Harlan, MD, FACP, CCMS | Terms of Use | Privacy Policy


 

Ask Dr. Gourmet

What can I subtitute for the tree nuts I am allergic to?

I am allergic to nuts. I can eat peanuts but all others cause canker sores, hives etc. Any suggestions for a substitution?

Dr. Gourmet Says...

a single pumpkin

Having a tree nut allergy can be a challenge. While peanuts are legumes, like beans and peas, there is often cross-reaction and people with nut allergies can also have peanut and soy allergy. The problem is that this can be so specific to an individual that it's impossible to give someone with allergies guidelines without allergy testing.

There are seeds that you might be able to tolerate, such as pumpkin seeds.

The best way for you to keep from getting into trouble is to consult with a board certified allergist. Here's a link to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology web site. You can find an allergist close to you who can test you for specific allergies - you'll be safest with their guidance.

http://www.aaaai.org/physref/

Thanks for writing,

Timothy S. Harlan, MD, FACP, CCMS
Dr. Gourmet