Dutch influencer Elise Boers, 40 years old, lived on the Spanish island of Ibiza with her partner and three children since 2023. However, she is now returning to her homeland because she suffers from a severe nut allergy.
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The woman said she was increasingly experiencing allergic reactions, “because nuts are often included in dishes, even when I warn about the allergy in advance at the restaurant,” the Dutch publication “Telegraaf” quotes her. Especially dangerous, according to her, is that many places in Ibiza are difficult to reach.
“I choose a life where I feel safer”
“I had to call 112 several times, and each time the ambulance took at least half an hour to arrive. For me, that could mean the end,” said Elise, who has 316,000 followers on Instagram.
When she was additionally diagnosed with a peach allergy, the woman lost trust in food and, as she says, “lived in fear every day.” Eventually, the family decided to leave and pack their bags.
Returning to the Netherlands was a difficult decision for everyone. “We are leaving a life where we were so happy for a life where I feel safer,” the Dutch woman told “Telegraaf.”
The influencer lived on the Spanish island with her partner Wouter, sons Wolf and Luca, and daughter Coco since 2023.
4 facts about nut allergy
Nut allergy can cause severe reactions. Even a very small amount can cause itching, swelling, shortness of breath, and in the worst case – life-threatening anaphylaxis.
Not all nuts are the same. Allergy to peanuts, which botanically belong to legumes, does not automatically mean allergy to all tree nuts. However, cross-reactions are possible.
It is important to use the emergency kit properly. People diagnosed with severe nut allergy should always have a doctor-prescribed emergency kit. If shortness of breath, circulatory problems, or several symptoms occur simultaneously, adrenaline auto-injector should be used immediately and 112 called.
Hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, cashews, pistachios, and Brazil nuts are classified as nuts. Peanuts botanically belong to legumes but are often also classified as nuts.
Nut allergy is widespread in Germany as well
Elise Boers is not alone with this problem. About 3.7% of adults and 4.2% of children in Germany have confirmed food allergies. A large portion of these cases are allergies to hazelnuts and peanuts.
According to “Apotheken Umschau,” about 1.4% of people suffer from them. Since many allergic people also experience cross-reactions, for example related to pollen allergy, the proportion of people in the population who feel unwell when eating tree nuts or peanuts is even higher.
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