Navigating Nutritional Needs: Experts' Tips for the 'Top 8' Food Challenge
August 8 is "Top 8 Challenge Day," which aims to raise awareness of the top 8 allergens related to eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGIDs). The top 8 food allergens are milk, fish, crustacean shellfish, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts, and tree nuts. People with food allergies are advised to work with a doctor or registered dietitian to develop a suitable diet plan. Food allergies affect an estimated 8% of children and 6.2% of adults in the United States. Removing an allergen from the diet for one day may not provide accurate results, and it is recommended to work with a dietitian specializing in food allergies for a longer period of time. It is important to take food allergies seriously, as exposure to allergens can be life-threatening.