What I have learned from FPIES....

I have been reflecting on what I have learned about allergies, digestion and nutrition, thanks to FPIES.   I have a degree in nutrition, and have always had an interest in digestion and in recent years (yes pre-FPIES), I have taken an interest in allergies.   Up until 10mo. ago, I was not, however, familiar at all with such a thing called FPIES.  If it wasn't for FPIES, I would be among those nutrition professional that are telling parents that it is "highly unlikely/rare" to react to oils, and syrups, and vitamins, etc.   But, this is where I would have been wrong- where my teaching would not have prepared me for what my experience has far surpassed anything I could learn from a book, or a research paper, or a class.   And what I haven't experienced first hand, I have learned directly from other parents who are right beside me, going through the same/similar things we are and have been.

I have learned:
1.  Food journals are a must.
2.  Cross contamination is a very real threat.
3.  Trace proteins are enough to launch a reaction- minor or full-blown.
4.  Trace proteins can be present in breastmilk, sufficient enough to cause reactions.
5. Not everyone will tolerate all elemental formula's.
6. It is possible to react to oils, syrups, and starches.
7. It is possible to be allergic to breastmilk.
8. Someone can be allergic to tapioca.
9. Rice is not a non-allergenic food.
10. It is possible to build your own formula.
11. FPIES triggers intestinal inflammation that is severe and acute; and it's effects can last anywhere from 1-4weeks to heal.  Food trials should not be done during that time, a return to a safe diet is essential for intestinal healing.
12. FPIES can be chronic or acute, or both.
13. Exposures to trace proteins can exacerbate a chronic condition, exposure to whole proteins will launch an acute on chronic reaction.
14. Vomiting and diarrhea are the bodies way of ridding itself of the (perceived) toxin.
15. Shock is scary, and should never be underestimated.
16. Acidosis is scary, and is part of an FPIES reaction.
17. Corn is everywhere- be aware.
18. Advocacy is a must, teaching opportunities are everywhere.
19. Corn should be in the Top Allergen's list
20. Don't assume labels will be listed for cross contamination's.
21. FPIES can cause villous blunting/atrophy.
22. Non-food sources can trigger an FPIES response- even if not taken orally.
23. FPIES is a cross between IgE Anaphylaxis allergy and Celiac allergy. It should never be underestimated.
24. I should never be underestimated.
25. I have so much more to learn.