Tips For A Misery-Free Turkey Day
It's all in the planning: planning ahead gives everybody time....Time to get rooms cleaned, get a list of foods to be avoided for food allergic individuals and reducing the risk for allergic and asthma triggers. 
The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology recommend the following:
Advice for the party planner: For guests with food allergies, the holiday feast often includes common food allergens such as wheat, soy, dairy and nuts:
Talking turkey - The centerpiece of the Thanksgiving meal may seem safe, but self-basting turkeys can include soy, wheat and dairy. A natural turkey is your best bet since by law it must contain nothing but turkey and water. Also, be sure the stuffing is made from wheat-free bread.
On the side - For allergen-free mashed potatoes, swap the milk and butter for chicken broth and margarine. Use corn starch to thicken the gravy instead of wheat flour. And forget about topping the green bean casserole with slivered almonds.
Now for dessert - Even though pumpkin allergies are rare, America's favorite Thanksgiving pie can cause problems. Be sure to offer alternative desserts. To be on the safe side, suggest guests with serious food allergies bring their own sweet treats.
For those with outdoor allergies...Watch out for environmental triggers too...
Wash-up woes - Aunt Sophie's fancy guest soap may contain fragrance that can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Use the regular soap or bring your own.
Problem pets - If you're allergic to furry animals, asking grandma to lock her cat in the basement during your visit will do little if anything to ease your misery. That's because pet dander gets everywhere and is difficult to eradicate. However, you can help yourself by taking symptom-easing medications prior to your visit. An allergist can recommend treatments for your pet allergy, such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants or appropriate asthma medications.
No rest for the allergic - Dust mites are one of the most common allergy and asthma triggers. To prevent your allergic guests from 
sneezing all night long, thoroughly dust the extra bedroom and wash bedding in hot water. If you have allergies and are doing the visiting, pack your own pillow or allergen-proof pillow cover.
The ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 5,700 allergists-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy, and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes.
Enjoy your Thanksgiving Holiday. Plan Well. Be Safe
