The Trip Out West – Update

Many of you read about two months ago when I was frantically searching for a trailer or motorhome in which to head out west to visit my grandfather before he died. Today’s post is an update to that one. Not a lot of allergy info here, just a crazy story. In the week I had […]


Should I avoid something if it was only diagnosed as a “Sensitivity” rather than an allergy?

This question pops up on Facebook almost as often as “Which products should I use to avoid ‘x’ chemical?” A positive patch test for chemical allergies can provide some complicated results. Not only do you have to get your head around all of the chemical names and where these chemicals are found but you also […]


Happy Victoria Day

It is Victoria Day here in Canada.  Have a good holiday and the next post will be Friday, April 26th.


Allergy Apathy

I’ve encountered a certain subset of people over the years – people who have allergies or who might have allergies and don’t care. I’ve seen family members, friends, acquaintances, and strangers who seem almost apathetic of their allergies or possible allergies. As someone who suffers from rather severe but atypical allergies, it’s a bit disconcerting. […]


Safer Ways to Make Shoes Stop Stinking

Most of us have experienced stinky feet at one point or another in our lives. While some may reach for the fabric refresher spray or cleaning chemicals, those with chemical allergies need to be a bit more cautious in the products and methods we use. Even essential oils, which are tolerated by some with chemical […]


Across Western Canada by Health Food Store (Store Reviews) – Part Two: BC

In part one, I reviewed health food stores from Ontario to Alberta, based mainly on my recent cross-country trip. I visited over 25 different shops, and it is my hope that my own experiences about what you might find in each will help others. Today I discuss some of the gems and not-so-wonderful natural food […]


Across Western Canada by Health Food Store (Store Reviews) – Part One

In April, I took a trip halfway across Canada and back – from Ontario to BC’s west coast. Not only did I need to find snacks and other foods along the way, but I also wanted to explore the diversity of products offered in different places. I decided to review the places I stopped so […]


Finding Propylene Glycol-Free Food

Since my body first forced me to realize the extent of my glycol allergies, I have spent a great deal of time thinking about food. Not only have I replaced nearly every staple in my house, but I keep looking for convenience foods that I can have around in case of needing a quick snack, […]


Does the Sulphite Drying Process Affect People with Glycol Allergies? Or…What’s Not in Dried Produce?

Sulphites (or sulfites, if you are American) are already an allergen of their own – so much so that in Canada they are considered a major allergen that must be reported on food products. Sulphites are a regular ingredient in wine production, so much so that finding wine without sulphites is uncommon. I heard a […]