Comments on: Ask the Readers: Frugality with food allergies? http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html Helping You Be a Better Home Economist Fri, 10 Feb 2012 19:52:06 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.2 By: Paula http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224264 Paula Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:44:41 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224264 I know that this is late, but it might help someone in the future, so I write it now. Our son has eosinophilic esophagitis and major food allergies. Basically, he can eat only about ten foods. I think the major thing to change is your mindset. I know that was what I had to change. I was trying to make sure he had bread so he could have sandwiches, cookies and pizza and ice cream! I had to realize that my son is different and will not be able to enjoy those type foods. Trying to buy (even make my own from scratch) became VERY expensive. Other kids say that they feel sorry for my kids because they cannot have such and such to eat (we are all pretty much on the same diet so I am not a short order cook). But I feel sorry for those kids that think that FOOD is what makes something fun. That is how kids get unhealthy and fat. My kids are super healthy, rarely get sick, and are super happy. I truly believe it is because we eat the foods God gave us to eat. VERY few things in my house have a label on them. Farmer's Markets are my best friend. I become friends with the farmer's I buy from (EVERYTHING has to be organic - my son reacts if it is not - that is how sensitive his system is). They usually have a stuff a bag for $10 (get a $1 off if you use THEIR bag which you can buy once and bring back again and again year after year). I and now my oldest daughter are REALLY good at stuffing a bag. I can usually get $35 worth of produce for about $10 this way. The smaller two girls will pick out what looks good, and my oldest and I will pack bags. Going when the market is about to close gives you the BEST bang for your buck. Keep an eye out on freecycle for a freezer. God knows you will need one and He will be faithful to provide. We had to wait a year, but He provided a VERY big one for our family. It has been a true blessing. Now we buy a lot during the summer, freeze it and preserve it and have plenty all winter. I have not had to buy an onion since August! We also stock up on sales of meat at the grocer. My son is allergic to all meats but buffalo and beef. We stock up on grass fed beef and buffalo when it goes on sale for about $3/lb. Normally $7/lb. Also, look for ways to cut elsewhere in the budget. Do you still have cable? Netflix? The library has everything for free, and you can watch most TV shows free online (a few days after they have already aired). And Red Box has coupons for free rentals for when you just can't wait. Are you eating out a lot? Make eating IN more fun! You save money AND you don't have to worry about the waitress accidentally giving your son milk when you ordered water (thank God I had an epi pen with me!). Do you have two cars and two payments? Do you really need that second car? I know it is difficult to sometimes just stay at home, but it saves you money (no second car payment, and no temptations from Goodwill!). If you need fellowship, invite friends over to your house (a great way to make sure your child is not getting any allergens at another friend's house). I have to second (or third, whatever place in line I am) the 5dollardinners.com - great stuff that can be modified to fit most any allergen diet. And while my son cannot have ice cream. He can have fruit popsicles. I can even shave ice and pour fruit juice over it for a special treat. I can dehydrate fruit to make leathers for him. I still make cookies (I have a recipe on my son's web site <a href="http://onemothersjourney.blogspot.com)," rel="nofollow">http://onemothersjourney.blogspot.com),</a> but they are simple and use ingredients I already have on hand, not specialty ones that cost an arms and a leg. He cannot have cheese, but he can have jerky. Pray about fun and unique ways to make sure your child with special food needs gets to participate. My son is happy and healthy and thriving now (no longer on a feeding tube). Sacrifices have to be made. God will bless you for them and He will provide. I hope that this was helpful. I know that this is late, but it might help someone in the future, so I write it now. Our son has eosinophilic esophagitis and major food allergies. Basically, he can eat only about ten foods.

I think the major thing to change is your mindset. I know that was what I had to change. I was trying to make sure he had bread so he could have sandwiches, cookies and pizza and ice cream! I had to realize that my son is different and will not be able to enjoy those type foods. Trying to buy (even make my own from scratch) became VERY expensive.

Other kids say that they feel sorry for my kids because they cannot have such and such to eat (we are all pretty much on the same diet so I am not a short order cook). But I feel sorry for those kids that think that FOOD is what makes something fun. That is how kids get unhealthy and fat. My kids are super healthy, rarely get sick, and are super happy. I truly believe it is because we eat the foods God gave us to eat. VERY few things in my house have a label on them.

Farmer’s Markets are my best friend. I become friends with the farmer’s I buy from (EVERYTHING has to be organic – my son reacts if it is not – that is how sensitive his system is). They usually have a stuff a bag for $10 (get a $1 off if you use THEIR bag which you can buy once and bring back again and again year after year). I and now my oldest daughter are REALLY good at stuffing a bag. I can usually get $35 worth of produce for about $10 this way. The smaller two girls will pick out what looks good, and my oldest and I will pack bags. Going when the market is about to close gives you the BEST bang for your buck.

Keep an eye out on freecycle for a freezer. God knows you will need one and He will be faithful to provide. We had to wait a year, but He provided a VERY big one for our family. It has been a true blessing. Now we buy a lot during the summer, freeze it and preserve it and have plenty all winter. I have not had to buy an onion since August!

We also stock up on sales of meat at the grocer. My son is allergic to all meats but buffalo and beef. We stock up on grass fed beef and buffalo when it goes on sale for about $3/lb. Normally $7/lb.

Also, look for ways to cut elsewhere in the budget. Do you still have cable? Netflix? The library has everything for free, and you can watch most TV shows free online (a few days after they have already aired). And Red Box has coupons for free rentals for when you just can’t wait. Are you eating out a lot? Make eating IN more fun! You save money AND you don’t have to worry about the waitress accidentally giving your son milk when you ordered water (thank God I had an epi pen with me!). Do you have two cars and two payments? Do you really need that second car? I know it is difficult to sometimes just stay at home, but it saves you money (no second car payment, and no temptations from Goodwill!). If you need fellowship, invite friends over to your house (a great way to make sure your child is not getting any allergens at another friend’s house).

I have to second (or third, whatever place in line I am) the 5dollardinners.com – great stuff that can be modified to fit most any allergen diet.

And while my son cannot have ice cream. He can have fruit popsicles. I can even shave ice and pour fruit juice over it for a special treat. I can dehydrate fruit to make leathers for him. I still make cookies (I have a recipe on my son’s web site http://onemothersjourney.blogspot.com), but they are simple and use ingredients I already have on hand, not specialty ones that cost an arms and a leg. He cannot have cheese, but he can have jerky. Pray about fun and unique ways to make sure your child with special food needs gets to participate.

My son is happy and healthy and thriving now (no longer on a feeding tube). Sacrifices have to be made. God will bless you for them and He will provide. I hope that this was helpful.

]]> By: Lisa http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224263 Lisa Fri, 06 Mar 2009 18:34:14 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224263 I have an extreme allergy to eggs, one of my daughters is allergic to cinnamon, and another is allergic to artificial colors in foods. We have to buy a lot of natural and organic foods! Target is the cheapest place to buy foods like this (especially snacks). For example, at Sweetbay it costs $6 for fruit leather but at Target it costs $3! Also, if you have a food co-op near you, you can buy a membership and may also be able work a few hours each week (as a volunteer) and get a huge discount on the food you purchase there. Hopes this helps! Lisa I have an extreme allergy to eggs, one of my daughters is allergic to cinnamon, and another is allergic to artificial colors in foods. We have to buy a lot of natural and organic foods! Target is the cheapest place to buy foods like this (especially snacks). For example, at Sweetbay it costs $6 for fruit leather but at Target it costs $3! Also, if you have a food co-op near you, you can buy a membership and may also be able work a few hours each week (as a volunteer) and get a huge discount on the food you purchase there.
Hopes this helps!
Lisa

]]> By: mb http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224262 mb Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:56:21 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224262 My son had milk and egg allergies until last year. He grew out of them. Woo hoo! But, it's what he is used to eating, so we still eat a lot of the same things since he doesn't like cow's milk or egg, etc. Cooking everything from scratch was not really an option for me and I don't think for a lot of people, especially those who work. I have written about what we did to save money here and there and what kinds of things we cooked over at my blog at www.flyawayfamily.com My son had milk and egg allergies until last year. He grew out of them. Woo hoo! But, it’s what he is used to eating, so we still eat a lot of the same things since he doesn’t like cow’s milk or egg, etc.

Cooking everything from scratch was not really an option for me and I don’t think for a lot of people, especially those who work.

I have written about what we did to save money here and there and what kinds of things we cooked over at my blog at http://www.flyawayfamily.com

]]> By: Hanna http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224261 Hanna Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:11:47 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224261 I was recently diagnosed with celiac disease (meaning a no gluten diet) and I also have poor tolerance for beef and soy. Most of what I would have said has already been mentioned above; however, I do have one more suggestion for you. Once you get comfortable with some of the different flours/products, etc and know what you want, start looking at Amazon.com. A lot of times you can buy food there in bulk for cheaper than you would buying one package at a time at a store. Granted it is a bigger expense initially, but in the long run, it can save you quite a bit. I actually set aside a bit of my grocery money every month just to save up for my bulk shopping days on Amazon. I buy all my pastas there (Tinkyada pasta is the best gluten free one I've found yet) and a lot of my flour there as well. Just make sure you buy the food when they're available with Amazon's "no shipping" option. Also, as you no doubt know, it's harder to just pop out to a store when you're dealing with needing very specific items, so having them on hand in bulk really helps the stress levels as well! I was recently diagnosed with celiac disease (meaning a no gluten diet) and I also have poor tolerance for beef and soy. Most of what I would have said has already been mentioned above; however, I do have one more suggestion for you.

Once you get comfortable with some of the different flours/products, etc and know what you want, start looking at Amazon.com. A lot of times you can buy food there in bulk for cheaper than you would buying one package at a time at a store. Granted it is a bigger expense initially, but in the long run, it can save you quite a bit. I actually set aside a bit of my grocery money every month just to save up for my bulk shopping days on Amazon.

I buy all my pastas there (Tinkyada pasta is the best gluten free one I’ve found yet) and a lot of my flour there as well. Just make sure you buy the food when they’re available with Amazon’s “no shipping” option.

Also, as you no doubt know, it’s harder to just pop out to a store when you’re dealing with needing very specific items, so having them on hand in bulk really helps the stress levels as well!

]]> By: Julie http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224260 Julie Fri, 06 Mar 2009 09:36:45 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224260 I am so glad that I'm not alone. My children have wheat, oat, egg, soy, dairy, peanut & tree nut allergies, (and possibly bean), and I can't help but laugh when I read of people feeding their families on $50/week. You must cut out all offending foods, no matter how slight the reactions. Reactions will get worse with time, and it is not worth the risks. I had pretty well adapted to dairy/nut/egg free life; we use Rice Dream, various egg substitutes, and Natural Balance buttery spread. I give my son a dairy-free calcium supplement. Wheat, oat, and soy is a different ballgame. Planning dinners (and lunch and breakfast) is really hard. Basically I stick to meat, potatoes or rice, and vegetables; casseroles are gone. We all like beef & pork roasts (which go on sale regularly), whole chicken ($.79/lb), chicken thighs, and ground beef. Sometimes I fix rolls for those who can eat wheat. I really feel like fresh fruits and vegs are an important part of our already limited diet and therefore I am willing to pay $20-$30 a week on produce that we really do eat. We eat salads, broccoli, lots of apples, oranges, & bananas. My other splurge is Hormel Natural Choice lunch meat. It is free of wheat & dairy as well as yucky nitrates. It is easy to break in pieces for the little ones, transportable to the park (unlike roast), and very tasty. I often eat apple slices dipped in sunflower butter (though I'm hesitant to actually feed this to nut-allergic children b/c it is processed with nuts). Soy Dream and Rice Dream make pretty good ice creams for special occasions. One son who can have soy loves Tofutti ice cream sandwiches. Sorbet (not sherbet) is a great dairy free, easily accessible treat, too. Bob's Red Mill Gluten free All Purpose Mix is great for making pancakes & brownies. Google "Wacky Cake" for a tasty chocolate cake, safe from eggs & dairy, and can be modified for wheat free, too. My last two comments: 1. Try not to focus on all the things you (or your child) can't have. Learn to embrace potatoes and rice. 2. Try not to worry excessively about your food budget. At $500/month, I feel like I am doing the best I can for our family of 5. Yes, I would like to save more, but we have to eat (and I like to eat as nutritiously as possible). I am so glad that I’m not alone. My children have wheat, oat, egg, soy, dairy, peanut & tree nut allergies, (and possibly bean), and I can’t help but laugh when I read of people feeding their families on $50/week.

You must cut out all offending foods, no matter how slight the reactions. Reactions will get worse with time, and it is not worth the risks. I had pretty well adapted to dairy/nut/egg free life; we use Rice Dream, various egg substitutes, and Natural Balance buttery spread. I give my son a dairy-free calcium supplement.

Wheat, oat, and soy is a different ballgame. Planning dinners (and lunch and breakfast) is really hard. Basically I stick to meat, potatoes or rice, and vegetables; casseroles are gone. We all like beef & pork roasts (which go on sale regularly), whole chicken ($.79/lb), chicken thighs, and ground beef. Sometimes I fix rolls for those who can eat wheat.

I really feel like fresh fruits and vegs are an important part of our already limited diet and therefore I am willing to pay $20-$30 a week on produce that we really do eat. We eat salads, broccoli, lots of apples, oranges, & bananas.

My other splurge is Hormel Natural Choice lunch meat. It is free of wheat & dairy as well as yucky nitrates. It is easy to break in pieces for the little ones, transportable to the park (unlike roast), and very tasty. I often eat apple slices dipped in sunflower butter (though I’m hesitant to actually feed this to nut-allergic children b/c it is processed with nuts).

Soy Dream and Rice Dream make pretty good ice creams for special occasions. One son who can have soy loves Tofutti ice cream sandwiches. Sorbet (not sherbet) is a great dairy free, easily accessible treat, too.

Bob’s Red Mill Gluten free All Purpose Mix is great for making pancakes & brownies. Google “Wacky Cake” for a tasty chocolate cake, safe from eggs & dairy, and can be modified for wheat free, too.

My last two comments: 1. Try not to focus on all the things you (or your child) can’t have. Learn to embrace potatoes and rice. 2. Try not to worry excessively about your food budget. At $500/month, I feel like I am doing the best I can for our family of 5. Yes, I would like to save more, but we have to eat (and I like to eat as nutritiously as possible).

]]> By: The Food Allergy Assistant http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224259 The Food Allergy Assistant Fri, 06 Mar 2009 09:18:48 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224259 It is hard to be frugal when you have food allergies. I signed up for Be Free For Me's coupons and samples. Check it out at : <a href="http://www.befreeforme.com/SignUp.aspx" rel="nofollow">http://www.befreeforme.com/SignUp.aspx</a> I have lots of food allergy friendly recipes on my site as well: <a href="http://www.foodallergyassistant.com" rel="nofollow">http://www.foodallergyassistant.com</a> <a href="http://foodallergyassistant.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow">http://foodallergyassistant.blogspot.com/</a> It is hard to be frugal when you have food allergies. I signed up for Be Free For Me’s coupons and samples. Check it out at :

http://www.befreeforme.com/SignUp.aspx

I have lots of food allergy friendly recipes on my site as well:
http://www.foodallergyassistant.com
http://foodallergyassistant.blogspot.com/

]]> By: Nicole http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224258 Nicole Fri, 06 Mar 2009 08:19:12 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224258 Trader Joes is a great place to get egg-free and nut free stuff at reasonable prices! My son is allergic to all dairy, eggs and all nuts(peanuts too)! I used to have to go to Whole Foods until the Trader Joes opened up in my area. I also make most of our meals from scratch. Trader Joes is a great place to get egg-free and nut free stuff at reasonable prices! My son is allergic to all dairy, eggs and all nuts(peanuts too)! I used to have to go to Whole Foods until the Trader Joes opened up in my area. I also make most of our meals from scratch.

]]> By: Rebecca http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224257 Rebecca Fri, 06 Mar 2009 03:48:23 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224257 I'm allergic to all kinds of nuts. We use Sun Butter instead of peanutbutter. My husband says it tastes just like peanut butter. So much in fact that he was afraid for me to try it. It's not incredibly expensive and sometimes goes on sale. Another choice is cream of rice instead of cream of wheat. The coupons for cream of wheat will work for cream of rice. I’m allergic to all kinds of nuts. We use Sun Butter instead of peanutbutter. My husband says it tastes just like peanut butter. So much in fact that he was afraid for me to try it. It’s not incredibly expensive and sometimes goes on sale. Another choice is cream of rice instead of cream of wheat. The coupons for cream of wheat will work for cream of rice.

]]> By: Jennifer M. http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224256 Jennifer M. Thu, 05 Mar 2009 22:57:58 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224256 Sorry, thought of something else. =) The dietician that I saw said that my son's egg allergy was only to the egg whites b/c that's where the protein is. If that's the case for you, then you can still use the yolks to cook. I had to separate the whites and then rinse off the yolk to make sure to get all of the whites off or he would still have a reaction. Anyway, I think that it. I think. =) Sorry, thought of something else. =) The dietician that I saw said that my son’s egg allergy was only to the egg whites b/c that’s where the protein is. If that’s the case for you, then you can still use the yolks to cook. I had to separate the whites and then rinse off the yolk to make sure to get all of the whites off or he would still have a reaction. Anyway, I think that it. I think. =)

]]> By: Jennifer M. http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224255 Jennifer M. Thu, 05 Mar 2009 22:45:20 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224255 Ooh, I just thought of one more! hehe. For spaghetti I would use rice noodles. You can find them in the asian section of the grocery store. Ooh, I just thought of one more! hehe. For spaghetti I would use rice noodles. You can find them in the asian section of the grocery store.

]]> By: Jennifer M. http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224254 Jennifer M. Thu, 05 Mar 2009 22:44:04 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224254 I just have a few more practical ideas in case the organic route is too expensive for you: Mostly you'll have to start reading labels. Once you know what works and what doesn't, it gets easier. But don't let that fool you, because they're constantly changing their "recipies." I guess I'll start with cereal. If you don't like the sugary kind, try Rice Chex. If you like to give them a treat now and then (or I liked to mix the sugary with the good stuff), you can find something like Smacks or another puffed rice cereal, you'll just have to check the corn syrup, because I didn't have to worry about that. As for the milk to go with, I used Rice Dream, it's fortified. But you might want to make sure you add a little more protein somewhere else in their diet? For egg substitute, the dietician at our hospital was very helpful (another resource I would suggest tapping into). She gave me info on all my son's allergies (where they might be hiding, like root beer and lunchmeat have egg in them; as well as helpful substitutions). I would use cornstarch and water, although I don't have the exact recipe, I can get it for you if you would like it. Bread. If you look in the freezer section of the grocery store (although I haven't found any at Walmart) with the frozen loaves of bread, like Ezekiel bread, there's a brand that makes spelt and rice bread, although I can't remember the name right off hand (I can get that for you too, if you'd like it). It's a bit pricey, but if it's just your son eating it, it will last a while. For my sons birthday and other special occasions, so he wouldn't feel left out, I would splurge and go to the health food store and get a specialty cake mix, although they have these more and more at regular grocery stores now. They don't taste any different from regular cakes really, and they have the right mixtures of the different grains. I tried making my own with rice and oat, but it came out really heavy. For ice cream, I found some store brand whipped topping (like Cool-Whip) that didn't have any dairy, but, again, I don't know about the corn syrup. Anyway, I would freeze it and he loved it. I tried the more expensive soy and rice cream, but he wouldn't eat them at all. Well, that's all I can think of right now, but if I think of anything else, I'll come back and post. Just a note of encouragement, it does get easier once you get the hang of it all. Have fun on your new journey! =) I just have a few more practical ideas in case the organic route is too expensive for you:

Mostly you’ll have to start reading labels. Once you know what works and what doesn’t, it gets easier. But don’t let that fool you, because they’re constantly changing their “recipies.”

I guess I’ll start with cereal. If you don’t like the sugary kind, try Rice Chex. If you like to give them a treat now and then (or I liked to mix the sugary with the good stuff), you can find something like Smacks or another puffed rice cereal, you’ll just have to check the corn syrup, because I didn’t have to worry about that.

As for the milk to go with, I used Rice Dream, it’s fortified. But you might want to make sure you add a little more protein somewhere else in their diet?

For egg substitute, the dietician at our hospital was very helpful (another resource I would suggest tapping into). She gave me info on all my son’s allergies (where they might be hiding, like root beer and lunchmeat have egg in them; as well as helpful substitutions). I would use cornstarch and water, although I don’t have the exact recipe, I can get it for you if you would like it.

Bread. If you look in the freezer section of the grocery store (although I haven’t found any at Walmart) with the frozen loaves of bread, like Ezekiel bread, there’s a brand that makes spelt and rice bread, although I can’t remember the name right off hand (I can get that for you too, if you’d like it). It’s a bit pricey, but if it’s just your son eating it, it will last a while.

For my sons birthday and other special occasions, so he wouldn’t feel left out, I would splurge and go to the health food store and get a specialty cake mix, although they have these more and more at regular grocery stores now. They don’t taste any different from regular cakes really, and they have the right mixtures of the different grains. I tried making my own with rice and oat, but it came out really heavy. For ice cream, I found some store brand whipped topping (like Cool-Whip) that didn’t have any dairy, but, again, I don’t know about the corn syrup. Anyway, I would freeze it and he loved it. I tried the more expensive soy and rice cream, but he wouldn’t eat them at all.

Well, that’s all I can think of right now, but if I think of anything else, I’ll come back and post. Just a note of encouragement, it does get easier once you get the hang of it all. Have fun on your new journey! =)

]]> By: MJ http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224253 MJ Thu, 05 Mar 2009 20:47:52 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224253 I just saw on the Angelfood Ministries website where they now offer a box that is allergen free. <a href="http://www.angelfoodministries.com/menu_0903en.asp" rel="nofollow">http://www.angelfoodministries.com/menu_0903en.asp</a> The description is : Processed to eliminate the eight top serious allergens: Peanuts, Soybeans, Milk, Eggs, Fish, Crustacea, Tree Nuts and Gluten (wheat, rye and barley). Great for children and adults! I just saw on the Angelfood Ministries website where they now offer a box that is allergen free. http://www.angelfoodministries.com/menu_0903en.asp
The description is :

Processed to eliminate the eight top serious allergens: Peanuts, Soybeans, Milk, Eggs, Fish, Crustacea, Tree Nuts and Gluten (wheat, rye and barley). Great for children and adults!

]]> By: Joyce Hawkinson http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224252 Joyce Hawkinson Thu, 05 Mar 2009 17:18:53 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224252 Ashley, if your daughter is sensitive to wheat, you need to check on Kamut and Spelt -- they have gluten as well. I make a cereal mix with Quinoa flakes, crushed millet, certified stone-ground oats, and brown rice. I cook large batches in advance and freeze it in single portions. When I reheat it, sometimes I use coconut milk, dried pineapple bits, almond slivers and sprinkle coconut on top. Problem is, then my husband wants to eat it too! Ashley, if your daughter is sensitive to wheat, you need to check on Kamut and Spelt — they have gluten as well. I make a cereal mix with Quinoa flakes, crushed millet, certified stone-ground oats, and brown rice. I cook large batches in advance and freeze it in single portions. When I reheat it, sometimes I use coconut milk, dried pineapple bits, almond slivers and sprinkle coconut on top. Problem is, then my husband wants to eat it too!

]]> By: Dawn (rn4jchrist) http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224251 Dawn (rn4jchrist) Thu, 05 Mar 2009 15:38:47 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224251 I haven't read the other replies, but my 3 y/o son is allergic to : gluten/wheat; eggs, dairy, peanuts, garlic, melon, oats and other stuff..cat/dust. I usually have to make 2 meals every time I cook, one for him and one for us, but what we do, is stick with fresh fruits and veggies and meat.. since he is able to have rice/corn products that helps a bit, but having all those allergies hasn't broke on bank.. he drinks soy milk often and when we bake with the gluten free etc products we also freeze the leftovers. and when a product is on reduced/clearance I buy ALOT, ie..Target sometimes reduces the Van's gluten free waffles to $1.64/box (regular $2.84 in most stores) so I'll buy as many as my budget can afford. Its been a challenge, but we've been doing a lot better at getting creative with his meals. Good luck to everyone! I haven’t read the other replies, but my 3 y/o son is allergic to :
gluten/wheat; eggs, dairy, peanuts, garlic, melon, oats and other stuff..cat/dust.
I usually have to make 2 meals every time I cook, one for him and one for us, but what we do, is stick with fresh fruits and veggies and meat.. since he is able to have rice/corn products that helps a bit, but having all those allergies hasn’t broke on bank.. he drinks soy milk often and when we bake with the gluten free etc products we also freeze the leftovers. and when a product is on reduced/clearance I buy ALOT, ie..Target sometimes reduces the Van’s gluten free waffles to $1.64/box (regular $2.84 in most stores) so I’ll buy as many as my budget can afford. Its been a challenge, but we’ve been doing a lot better at getting creative with his meals. Good luck to everyone!

]]> By: Melanie http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224250 Melanie Thu, 05 Mar 2009 14:39:05 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224250 My daughter has been allergic to milk, eggs, all nuts and bananas since she was born. She's now 8. It's a tricky lifestyle and yes, our food budget is higher as we have found some prepackaged items that she can eat. We do make a lot from scratch. She actually eats healthier than anyone else I know. I do now make my own whole wheat bread (only has 8 ingredients) and is fantastic. My kids love it. You need a freezer to help store the items that are on sale that they can eat, as well as stocking up on meats on sale. Again, don't beat yourself up when some people say "I only spend $50 a week on groceries". That's great for them but doesn't work in our household and I'm an avid couponer. Good luck! My daughter has been allergic to milk, eggs, all nuts and bananas since she was born. She’s now 8. It’s a tricky lifestyle and yes, our food budget is higher as we have found some prepackaged items that she can eat. We do make a lot from scratch. She actually eats healthier than anyone else I know. I do now make my own whole wheat bread (only has 8 ingredients) and is fantastic. My kids love it. You need a freezer to help store the items that are on sale that they can eat, as well as stocking up on meats on sale. Again, don’t beat yourself up when some people say “I only spend $50 a week on groceries”. That’s great for them but doesn’t work in our household and I’m an avid couponer. Good luck!

]]> By: Blaire Ruch http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224249 Blaire Ruch Thu, 05 Mar 2009 13:26:06 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224249 I'd love to hear about recipes and money saving tips, books, resources, etc. on milk allergies! My 15 month old just got diagnosed, and I'm concerned about him not getting the whole fat he would be getting in whole milk or other dairy. Please help! Crystal, maybe someone could write a guest post on different food allergies?? A different person for different allergies. Milk one day, wheat the next, etc. Thanks! This is seriously so timely for me - what a blessing from the Lord. I’d love to hear about recipes and money saving tips, books, resources, etc. on milk allergies! My 15 month old just got diagnosed, and I’m concerned about him not getting the whole fat he would be getting in whole milk or other dairy. Please help! Crystal, maybe someone could write a guest post on different food allergies?? A different person for different allergies. Milk one day, wheat the next, etc. Thanks! This is seriously so timely for me – what a blessing from the Lord.

]]> By: EmmyJMommy http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224248 EmmyJMommy Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:44:14 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224248 I am sooo loving the fact that there are others out there trying to be frugal and living with food allergies. My son stopped eating when he was 5 weeks old...we went through a lot, including a G-tube (feeding tube in his stomach) and found out in August that he is allergic to eggs...HIS FAVORITE FOOD! We live no where near a Whole Foods, but there is one about 2 hours north of us. We make a trip about 1 time a month up there, and I stock up on as many pre-packaged egg-free foods as I can! We have found Aunt Annie's pasta that has a pasta in tomato sauce that he LOVES! It is *very* expensive, but he usually gets 2 meals per can....and since I work outside of our home, it is a great "go to" when I am exhausted! I also have found Liz Lovely (http://www.lizlovely.com) cookies. They make Vegan cookies...and thanks to Whole Foods, I know that Vegan means NO EGG! So, if I see Vegan, I usually jump at it! My last "plug" is an online friend that I have made...Heather...she has a blog called SPEWD-FREE. Soy, Peanut, Egg, Wheat, and Dairy. Her adopted son is allergic to all of these, and she has a terrific source of information! (http://www.spewdfree.com) I am loving all of the suggestions and can't wait to try the milled flax seed, I actually have some! Thanks, y'all!!!! I am sooo loving the fact that there are others out there trying to be frugal and living with food allergies. My son stopped eating when he was 5 weeks old…we went through a lot, including a G-tube (feeding tube in his stomach) and found out in August that he is allergic to eggs…HIS FAVORITE FOOD!

We live no where near a Whole Foods, but there is one about 2 hours north of us. We make a trip about 1 time a month up there, and I stock up on as many pre-packaged egg-free foods as I can! We have found Aunt Annie’s pasta that has a pasta in tomato sauce that he LOVES! It is *very* expensive, but he usually gets 2 meals per can….and since I work outside of our home, it is a great “go to” when I am exhausted! I also have found Liz Lovely (http://www.lizlovely.com) cookies. They make Vegan cookies…and thanks to Whole Foods, I know that Vegan means NO EGG! So, if I see Vegan, I usually jump at it! My last “plug” is an online friend that I have made…Heather…she has a blog called SPEWD-FREE. Soy, Peanut, Egg, Wheat, and Dairy. Her adopted son is allergic to all of these, and she has a terrific source of information! (http://www.spewdfree.com)

I am loving all of the suggestions and can’t wait to try the milled flax seed, I actually have some! Thanks, y’all!!!!

]]> By: Dani http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224247 Dani Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:24:17 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224247 I have a daughter that struggles with allergies. I don't know that I have found a really inexpensive route at the grocery store. We do fruits and veggies a lot. I use sour cream to substitute for eggs when I bake. I also have a box of Egg Replacer to use. When I make cakes I only use the cake mix from a box and a can of soda. Sometimes you will find that just leaving out the egg is no big deal: like meat loaf.... I just don't put anything in to replace the egg. Tastes the same to us. We also leave eggs out of cornbread. Good luck! I know it's stressful. Hang in there! You will learn in time. Quick advice.... read ALL labels EVERYTIME you shop. Labels change! I have a daughter that struggles with allergies. I don’t know that I have found a really inexpensive route at the grocery store. We do fruits and veggies a lot. I use sour cream to substitute for eggs when I bake. I also have a box of Egg Replacer to use. When I make cakes I only use the cake mix from a box and a can of soda. Sometimes you will find that just leaving out the egg is no big deal: like meat loaf…. I just don’t put anything in to replace the egg. Tastes the same to us. We also leave eggs out of cornbread.

Good luck! I know it’s stressful. Hang in there! You will learn in time. Quick advice…. read ALL labels EVERYTIME you shop. Labels change!

]]> By: Stacey Edwards http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224246 Stacey Edwards Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:08:33 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224246 My son is allergic to milk proteins so, he can not have milk at all. I have tried cows milk, lactose free milk and even goat milk and they all make him very sick. The GI doc doesn't recommend rice milk cause there is not any nutritional value in it and my son will not drink soy cause it tastes "yucky." (He can't have sugar either so he can't have the flavored soy milk). I fix him his own food and we eat ours. I just discovered in my town we have a place to order a box of food at a very cheap rate. The company is called Angel Food Ministries. The web address is www.angelfoodministries.com and they are all over the US. I say all this because they just started this month having an Allergen-Free Box. These foods are processed to eliminate the eight top serious allergens: peanuts, soybeans, milk, eggs, fish, crustacea, tree nuts and gluten (wheat, rye, and barley). In this box you get 1lb of coated chicken tenders, 1lb of coated breast filet, 1lb coated chicken nuggets, 1lb coated chicken wings and 1lb coated cubed steak (chicken fried steak). You get all of this for just $25. They have other boxes too. Hope this helps! My son is allergic to milk proteins so, he can not have milk at all. I have tried cows milk, lactose free milk and even goat milk and they all make him very sick. The GI doc doesn’t recommend rice milk cause there is not any nutritional value in it and my son will not drink soy cause it tastes “yucky.” (He can’t have sugar either so he can’t have the flavored soy milk). I fix him his own food and we eat ours. I just discovered in my town we have a place to order a box of food at a very cheap rate. The company is called Angel Food Ministries. The web address is http://www.angelfoodministries.com and they are all over the US. I say all this because they just started this month having an Allergen-Free Box. These foods are processed to eliminate the eight top serious allergens: peanuts, soybeans, milk, eggs, fish, crustacea, tree nuts and gluten (wheat, rye, and barley). In this box you get 1lb of coated chicken tenders, 1lb of coated breast filet, 1lb coated chicken nuggets, 1lb coated chicken wings and 1lb coated cubed steak (chicken fried steak). You get all of this for just $25. They have other boxes too. Hope this helps!

]]> By: marisa http://moneysavingmom.com/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html/comment-page-1#comment-224245 marisa Thu, 05 Mar 2009 11:04:26 +0000 http://moneysavingmom.net/2009/03/your-readers-seem-to-be-some-very-creative-frugal-and-inventive-people-and-i-am-really-hoping-they-might-be-able-to-help-me.html#comment-224245 I agree witht eh food co-op idea. We do not allow any peanuts or peanut products into our home for fear of cross contamination. I buy butter, sour cream and cheese alternatives for one of our sons. I make pizzas from scratch with no cheese and just toppings for the one with dairy allergies. Never misses the cheese! We alos frequent Asian markets for wheat free products. I agree witht eh food co-op idea. We do not allow any peanuts or peanut products into our home for fear of cross contamination. I buy butter, sour cream and cheese alternatives for one of our sons. I make pizzas from scratch with no cheese and just toppings for the one with dairy allergies. Never misses the cheese!

We alos frequent Asian markets for wheat free products.

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