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QUINCY, IL -- More children are diagnosed with food allergies than ever before. We checked in with an Allergist at Quincy Medical Group.

Dr. Gary Carpenter told us he believes there's an increase in food allergies among kids, because more parents are aware...having their children checked out by a doctor.

Those who suffer from food allergies may vomit or get a rash. Babies and children are most at risk, because their immune systems haven't had time to develop.

Genetics also plays a role in who suffers and who doesn't. We also found out that food allergies can lead to another health risk.

Q: Is it true that children who have food allergies or allergies are more likely to get asthma? "Yes. Allergies all go together. It's just one of many manifestations. Many children develop czema as the initial sign and then as they get older, they develop respiratory allergy," said Dr. Carpenter.

Not only are kids at risk, but Dr. Carpenter says food allergies can develop anytime, no matter your age. He says he recently had an 80 year old patient with food allergies. 

Dr. Carpenter told me there may be several factors for food allergies. One is that some kids aren't exposed to as much sun.  That could make a child's immune system more susceptible to allergies.  Another factor is the fact that some kids aren't exposed to enough bacteria.