Book Review: Oscar's Lunchbox by Pam Houssenloge

What a special day--I received a copy of Oscar's Lunchbox By Pam Houssenloge in the mail! 

It's always a good feeling when you receive a package. 

Reading through this fabulous children's book, I couldn't resist holding back a childish smile. It reminded me of the good-ol' days when life seemed so much simpler. When Oscar was having some doubts about his lunch at school compared to the visually-appealing lunches of his peers, I couldn't help recalling the similar struggles that I went through. My struggles with bringing my own lunches, (often lunch which needed to be warmed in the microwave all the way at the nurse's office) started in middle school when I was diagnosed, and lasted all throughout high school. College was much more accepting, and being self-conscious about what I was eating quickly wore off.

I think this book is right on target with it's message! I love the approach that Mrs. Houssenloge takes when Oscar's mum teaches him that what he eats is his own healthy formula so that he can perform his best. That is a vital realization that those with food allergies have to hold on to. Personally, I would always say that the best thing about having food allergies was the fact that I was eating so much healthier! Of course, that was before more processed allergy-friendly options were available, but regardless, we typically still have healthier diets than those around us. It's important to know that, and to be proud of it. Honor your body, listen to what it has to tell you, and you'll be living a happy, healthy life.

I highly recommend this book for all children! Please visit Pam's website to purchase a copy for your family or a friend: http://wellconnectedkids.com.au/oscar’s-lunchbox/oscars-lunchbox/

Thank you! Have a great weekend.

Namaste,
Andrea Garza

Refined Peanut-Oil Used for Chick-Fil-A Chicken

My mom sent me a text earlier today, telling me that Chick-Fil-A uses refined peanut-oil to cook their chicken. I was surprised to see that a main restaurant chain would use peanut oil with so many individuals being allergic to peanuts. I didn't know this, and if I wasn't vegan, I could have easily have consumed a lot of that chicken by now (there is a Chick-Fil-A right on the ASU campus).

Luckily, I do not have anaphylaxis, so it would not have been a life-or-death situation if I had reacted. What does Chick-Fil-A have to say about it? I checked their website, just to verify that they do in fact use peanut-oil. They do. What else? I was surprised to see an entire argument below their initial statement which addresses why refined peanut-oil is basically ok for those with food allergies to consume. They go on to say that because the peanut oil is a "high-temperatuer, heat-processed, fully refined peanut oil (refined, bleached and deodorized)," that the proteins are "stripped out" through this intensive process.

Interesting that they would take such great efforts to convince those with allergies, that it would be perfectly safe to eat. They go on for several more paragraphs, quoting notable references such as the Food and Drug Administration, reassuring their chicken-lovers that it's ok for those with peanut allergies to continue consuming their product.

This didn't seem right; that they would try and persuade people that it's completely ok. From what little business mind I do have, I would think they would be more interested in covering their back--stating that it may not always be completely safe, and that the customers should take caution. Not necessarily the case.

So, I did a quick search of my own on PubMed. The first several articles basically reveal that, yes, highly-refining peanuts to make peanut oil will denature many of the proteins. That, I knew. (Remember, in an allergic reaction, the body is reacting to those proteins. Remove/kill the proteins, and theoretically you'll be ok). But, in a couple other studies, they concluded that although nearly all of the peanut protein was denatured, not 100% of it was denatured. Thus, a small amount of individuals could still react, especially if they are highly sensitive.

So...what does it all mean? Basically, scientists are still debating about it, and trying to get down to the root of the problem. Based on the 3 top articles that I looked at, it seems that as time goes by, more articles are citing that although refining will denature proteins, it's never 100% guaranteed that ALL proteins will be de-natured. Which makes complete sense. It depend on how manufacturers are running their refining plants. Maybe some didn't get mixed well, or it was un-evenly "heated," etc. Peanut oil is widely used, so I would imagine it is processed in large processing plants. That leaves more room for error. Newer articles are emphasizing to use caution--because there are some "sensitive" individual who may still react.

Personally, I would never risk the life of my child if they had anaphylaxis or any severe allergy to peanuts. It's almost a gamble to allow them to consume these refined oils (if allergic). Although the odds are in your favor, I wouldn't want my child to be the odd one out.

Sources:
http://www.chick-fil-a.com/Food/Ingredients-Peanut-Oil
Crevel, R. W. "Allergenicity of Refined Vegetable Oils." National Center for Biotechnology 
     Information. PubMed.gov, Apr. 2000. Web. 16 July 2012. <http://www-ncbi-nlm-nih-
     gov.ezproxy1.lib.asu.edu/pubmed/10722892>.
Ramazzotti, M., N. Mullinacci, and L. Pazzagli. "Analytic Investigations on Protein Content in Refined
     Seed Oils: Implications in Food Allergy." National Center for Biotechnology Information.      
     PubMed.gov, Nov. 2008. Web. 16 July 2012. <http://www-ncbi-nlm-nih- 
     gov.ezproxy1.lib.asu.edu/pubmed/18768153>.
Ring, J., and M. Mohrenschlager. "Allergy to Peanut Oil-- Clinically Relevant?" National Center 
     for Biotechnology Information. PubMed.gov, Apr. 2007. Web. 16 July 2012. <http://www-ncbi-   
     nlm-nih-gov.ezproxy1.lib.asu.edu/pubmed/17373969>.

Hard Times and Brownie-lovin'

I don't know what it is, but this year has been THE hardest for me as far as living with food allergies goes. Seriously, I've been really bummed out about the food I can't eat, especially the healthy foods. I would do anything to be able to eat a healthy, cheap, fast, over-easy egg in the mornings instead of a piece of toast with jam. Anything! Not to mention all these delicious treats that I see, and scrumptious, healthy meals that I can't eat. I'm trying to live healthy, and I just don't see the fairness in not being able to eat a perfectly healthy meal. I'm probably going to make a video blog soon to talk more about this. I've never been this distressed about it before! Maybe it's because I'm 21 and going to be a college senior--all these years in school of nearly similar meals have finally worn me out? Who knows.

On a brighter note, these cravings lead me to really want some brownies! I made my first batch of allergy-free brownies away from home, and they were delicious! I'm proud of myself :) One of my friends (who doens't have allergies) was looking for a healthier alternative to "regular" brownies, so I thought I would make this blog post for all the brownie lovers out there! Try something new, you never know if you'll love it!

I buy Pamela's brownie mix:

And all you need is to combine this mix, 1 egg (egg substitute: 1 tablespoon of arrowroot flower and 3 table spoons of water = 1 "egg," and I think it was 1/2 cup of water and 1/3 cup of oil. Have no fear, exact instructions are on the package ^_^ Bake for about 20 minutes and there you go! A beautiful, delicious batch of allergy-friendly alternative brownies.

ENJOY!

-Andrea Garza

Blogspot is Our *Permanent* Home

Up until 15 minutes ago, I was under the assumption that my Foodallergytalk.blogger.com blog was deleted by the evil Blogger bots. Apparently, we have been resurected! And honestly, I really like the new modifications to the website.

So? This will PERMANENTLY be our home! I'm going to delete the wordpress blog I was forced to start back in November (read post). Bear with me as transfer all of the old posts!

Welcome home! :)

-Andrea Garza

Oscar’s Lunchbox by Pam Houssenloge

“Guess what! My body tells me which food is good for me. When I eat the right food I feel great. It’s like having my own special racing car formula!” ~ Excerpt from Oscar’s Lunchbox

Oscar’s Lunchbox also contains a special underlying message for children and adults alike, reminding us to look past clever marketing and flavour enhancers when making food choices. By stopping to feel the messages from his body, Oscar makes a connection between what he eats and how he feels. And if he wants to feel great he learns that he has to follow these messages. The wisdom contained in Oscar's Lunchbox can be used as a fundamental tool for developing life long healthy eating habits.

Author Pam Houssenloge hopes Oscar’s Lunchbox will be utilized by health professionals, dieticians, nutritionists, childcare providers, and teachers in preschool and school settings to support children to make better food choices.

For a preview go to www.wellconnectedkids.com.au or for more information or media commentary, contact the author at pam@wellconnectedkids.com.au.
*Statistics from Allergy UK

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Have you read this book? Comment on what you thought about it!

-Andrea Garza

P.S. I moved this post from here.

SENATE BILL *NOTICE* & Food Allergy ED

SPECIAL NOTICE! ARIZONA STATE SENATE BILL 1278 HEARING WEDNESDAY FEB. 1ST, 2012

Show your support, and join us this Wednesday!!!

From our website:

Arizona Food Allergy Alliance has been working in concert with State Senator Linda Lopez, Arizona Legistlative District 29, on a what has now been drafted as State Bill 1278: Restaurants; Allergy Awareness Requirements. This bill is essentially created coupling AFAA's Restaurant Training Initiative (see below) and Massachusettes State law regarding restaurants.

ARIZONA STATE SENATE BILL 1278 WILL BE HEARD: WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1ST @ 9 A.M. STATE SENATE HEARING ROOM #109 Directions & Parking Map The food allergy community is invited to give their testimony and support during this hearing. If you would like to speak, please arrive about 30 minutes early to allow for parking and to register/request to speak at one of the kiosks in the Senate Lobby. Questions email info@arizonafoodallergy.org.

Food Allergy education video: http://vimeo.com/31093048

-Andrea Garza

#NHBPM Nov 30th LAST ONE! Play that Horn

Prompt: Play that horn. Want to hear a secret? You’re awesome. (It’s actually not even really a secret.) This is going to be hard for you, O Modest One, but you gotta give yourself props today. Write three things you love about yourself – things you’re great at – or just want to share. Don’t you dare signpost or undercut those self-compliments!

1. The fact that I created FoodAllergyTalk.com in middle school, and have developed it to what it is today. Not only that, but I'm the logistics chair for the AZ walk for Food Allergy--which is a lot of work! But well worth it on walk day :) Starting the club at ASU has been a challenge, but the fact that I'm attempting it says a lot. I'm very determined, an extremely hard worker, and passionate about health and helping others.
2. No matter how many times I get kicked down, or tripped... I ALWAYS find a way to get back up and work hard to prove that person/thing wrong. I am capable of anything, as long as I put my attention and desire towards achieving the goal, I will do it.
3. I am fearless. I go in to things head first, even if I know I'll be laughed at, or made fun of. I had an idea for my thesis that was not supported by my genetics professor, but I had the guts to present everything I had--to go into his office hours with only a faint idea of what I wanted to argue, and then to take the criticism and words from him saying it was most likely "not true." I don't stop there. I believe what I have is something to look into, so what did I do? Revised my idea, re-thought things, gathered more evidence, and narrowed my argument. Then I made an appointment with the Dean of the Barrett Honors College. In a personal meeting with him, I again presented everything I had. This time, I was on to something! From there, it's taking off. I will be meeting with some professors this week to secure an "adviser" to work with on my thesis. I have a lot of work ahead of me, but I'm ready to tackle it head on!

Thank you so much for following me on this new journey! I really enjoyed participating in the National Health Blog Post month! It was different, and I love trying new things! I look forward to participating again next year :) Keep checking back for new blog posts! Namaste, Andrea Garza

#NHBPM Nov29th Greeting Card Post

Prompt: Greeting card post! The greeting card industry is all about writing generally universal feelings in a presentable way that you can use to express yourself when you just can’t think of the words to say. Write a greeting card for someone in your community to help them express themselves about a new diagnosis, treatment, or experience.

Smile! No matter what happens, live life to the fullest. Your only task is to see beauty in all that your eyes see, every vibration, sensation, smell, sound, and heart-felt action. Love others, and soon you will feel love from within--continuously pouring out to uplift those around you. Live to Carpe Diem.   -Andrea Garza

#NHBPM Nov 28th Say WHAT!?

Prompt: Say WHAT?! What’s the most ridiculous thing you’ve heard about health or your condition. Was there any context? What did you think at the time you heard it – and what do you think of it now?

The most ridiculous thing I've heard about food allergies... I guess the most recent ridiculous thing I've heard is simply the fact that allergies have went from 3 million to 6 million occurrences in the U.S within a couple of years. This is ridiculous-- what a rapid increase! What is more ridiculous is that we still don't have solid evidence as to "why." Although there are several hypotheses, no one has come out and praised any singly hypothesis as an actual theory.

I am working on pointing us in the direction that I think is the most accurate for my Honors Thesis. Stay tuned for the final product, coming next year!

-Andrea Garza

2011 Walk for Food Allergy

Hello Food Allergy supporter! The Arizona Walk for Food Allergy is THIS SATURDAY, December 3rd! Last year for our first annual walk, we raised $42,000+ and had over 700 participants! This was an amazing feat, and the event was a huge success. We are excited to have an even better turn out this year!

If you are interested in volunteering:

I would like to invite you to be a part of our second annual AZ Walk for Food Allergy this year. Please leave a comment for the Volunteer documents--a powerpoint and description of positions. Please note this does count as volunteer hours for scholarships/greek life/etc!

1. Also, we request that you sign up here as a volunteer (get your free t-shirt!) https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?hl=en_US&formkey=dGJfdUZsQlVocE9iUWU0ZnJ2eXRjV0E6MQ#gid=0

2. And also register as a Walker, so we know you attended: http://www.foodallergywalk.org/site/TR/2011Walks/2011Walks?team_id=64926&pg=team&fr_id=1984

If you are interested in Walking:

Register here for the ASU team: http://www.foodallergywalk.org/site/TR/2011Walks/2011Walks?team_id=64926&pg=team&fr_id=1984

Please feel free to email me at amgarza2@asu.edu with any questions, concerns, ideas!

Thank you so much, and I look forward to seeing you this Saturday, December 3rd 7AM at the Tempe Center for the Arts! Follow us on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/FAAN-Walk-for-Food-Allergy-in-Arizona/148676601863196

-- Andrea M. Garza
Logistics Chair
AZ Walk for Food Allergy

Christmas Goodies [allergy free!]

Why hello! I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas. I guess this is late, since you no longer are required to slave away in the kitchen, baking goodies for everyone. BUT, if you're anything like me, you can ALWAYS have a good cookie/brownie recipe, because they are no doubt good all year round :)

Feast your eyes on this!

SO GOOD!!! I highly recommend :) Easy, and delicious. They did stick to the pan, and the container we put them in after, but it's worth it!

These didn't turn out exactly right, but that was because we made an error--otherwise, I'm sure they would be great! They just turned out hard, but again, that was our fault. These are super chocolaty, and the recipe is on the bag!

These are the same product, ORGANIC, and they turned out DELICIOUS! They are a little more time consuming just because you have to put it in the fridge for a bit before you shape them, but that's ok. They are really soft and delicious. Perfect for dipping in some hot cocoa or coffee :)

That's all we had time to make this year! I hope you enjoyed!! What did you bake?? Post a pic/comment below!

-Andrea Garza

#NHBPM Nov 27th Quote Unquote

Prompt: Quote Unquote. Grab a quote from this site (type in any word – see what comes up!) and use that quote to set you writing.

Nobody trips over mountains. It is the small pebble that causes you to stumble. Pass all the pebbles in your path and you will find you have crossed the mountain. ~Author Unknown

This has always been relevant in my life. I'm not going to lie... I fail a lot. But the thing about me, is that I keep going. Failure simply ignites something within me that makes me want to beat it/get better for the next time. I work harder. Condition, so to speak, in order to get better and succeed. I may not succeed the next time or the next, but you can sure bet that I will keep taking small steps towards success. This is particularly relevant for my courses here at ASU. Grades have never come easy to me. I have to work extremely hard, and sometimes I still don't do as well as I should be/would like to be. But I keep working hard, and soon enough I will see the results that I'm looking for. No matter what, never give up on what is the most important to you, or things that are necessary for you to reach your ultimate goals.

#NHBPM Nov 26th I Still Remember

Prompt: I still remember… Free write a post that starts with the line “I still remember…”

I still remember the moment I was officially diagnosed with all of my food allergies. The most vivid moment, was wheat. Why? Because I was praying the whole day that I would not be allergic to wheat, and the entire time the doctor was reading me the list of allergens, to myself I was repeating "not wheat, not wheat..."

The moment when he said wheat and gluten, my heat sank. It was devastating for me! At that time, my sister had already been living with a wheat and gluten allergen, and it was so hard... I didn't want to have that as well. Thankfully, times have gotten easier for those with allergies, and gluten free living has become much easier than it was about 8 years ago, which is pretty amazing if you think about it!