You may have chosen to become a vegetarian, but if you have food allergies, this choice can begin to seem a bit harsh. It can often be difficult to have a diet that’s confined to a few selected food items only.
Allergies can affect anyone whether vegetarian or not. For vegetarians, allergies can be due to any of the primary food groups: proteins, cereals and carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables. When you are allergic to any of these foods, its best to replace the food with some other food that is similar in nutrition to the one you’re allergic to.
Protein Allergies – Protein is an essential nutrient that helps in the repair and development of the cells and tissues. It is recommended that proteins be included in the diet everyday. Proteins are a constituent of almost all foods we eat, even though they are present in small quantities in most of these food items.
Protein allergies are generally cause by glutens. If you have a protein allergy, the only way to fulfill your body’s natural need for proteins is by substituting it with another source of gluten free proteins. There are grains like amaranth, teff and quinoa that are rich sources of proteins but do not contain any gluten and are therefore safe to eat for those with protein allergies.
Grains Allergies – Whole grains are a great source of energy giving carbohydrates. These contain many vital nutrients too. Your body requires carbohydrates to maintain energy for all the vital functions. Almost all the vegetarian entrées are made of grains and flours. Breads, pasta, and rye are all grains. Celiac disease or wheat allergy is another gluten allergy. Corn allergy is another grain allergy that causes a lot of problems. Corn is an essential additive in most processed foods and therefore it gets hard to live with this allergy.
Fortunately though, grain allergies are common enough for gluten-free products to be available in plenty. Cereals, breads and pastas, that are gluten free, are easily available. Millet, cassava and sorghum are other common grains that can substitute barley and corn in your daily food. Tice can also be used as a staple food if you have grain allergies. Rice is commonly available and is a rich source of carbohydrates.
Fruits and Vegetables Allergies – Fruits and vegetables are the sources of most of the vital minerals, vitamins and anti oxidants. Most people develop allergies to vegetables that have an aroma. Onion and garlic are the most common allergens in this category.
While you may simply substitute these fruits and vegetables, take care that you do not miss out on any of the vitamins and minerals that the vegetables you are substituting possess.