Food allergies are common in adults and children. The percentages of both adults and children are escalating and will continue to grow as most people are unaware of the products, ingredients, or substances they are allergic to.
Detecting a food allergy is vital as it wouldn’t let you make reckless choices and save your life from life-threatening conditions. The knowledge regarding different types of allergies and food sensitivities remains unknown.
It is somewhat possible that any food ingredient or substance can cause allergy, which varies from person to person. Despite a massive list of products and ingredients that one can become allergic to, we have taken out the 6 food items that can cause severe food allergic reactions.
What is Food Allergy?
A food allergy triggers an abnormal immune response in the body. If our immune system recognizes some of the proteins as harmful, it propels as a food allergy.
In order to curb the harmful effects of the proteins found in the body, our immune system releases a wide range of protective measures, including the release of some chemicals like histamine, which causes inflammation.
People who are allergic to some food ingredients or substances should be conscientious about their consumption, as even a small amount of consumption can lead to extreme allergic reactions. There are two primary types of food allergies, i.e., Immunoglobin E (IgE) mediated, and Non-IgE mediated.
- In Immunoglobin E (IgE) mediated food allergy, a person’s body makes IgE antibodies that react with some food substances and ingredients. The reactions of this allergy occurs after several hours of consuming the food.
- As for the non-IgE mediated food allergy, a person’s immune system does not make IgE antibodies against a perceived threat. Normally this food allergy involves digestive and skin-related complications.
6 Common Food Allergies to Know About
Here are the 6 common types of food allergies you need to be careful about.
1. Eggs
Egg allergy is one of the most common allergies, especially in children. This allergy leads to symptoms including digestive distress, skin reactions, respiratory problems, etc. some people are allergic to egg whites, and some to egg yolks. This happens because of the slight difference between the proteins found in egg whites and yolks.
Mostly, allergic reactions happen because of the proteins found in egg whites. Like so many other treatments, egg allergies also require an egg-free diet, which is essential.
2. Peanuts
Peanut allergy is another common food allergy that can become severe allergic reactions. Developing a peanut allergy mostly occur with a family history of peanut allergy. Not many adults are allergic to peanuts, which are commonly found in children.
Getting a blood test and sometimes a skin prick test becomes essential for detecting peanut allergy. Often, the best recommendation is to have a peanut-free diet in order to eliminate the chances of getting severe reactions.
3. Cow Milk
Cow milk is another product that is a common food allergy in many children and people. However, this condition outgrows with the passage of years and is less found in adults. It is important to note that cow milk allergy can become a source of both IgE and non-IgE-mediated allergies.
There are several instances where cow milk allergies have become serious and damaging and often lead to symptoms such as swelling, rashes, hives, vomiting, etc. In addition, there have also been some gut-based symptoms like constipation, vomiting, and diarrhea. So, if someone is allergic to cow milk, eliminating products or substances such as milk, milk powder, butter, cheese, cream, ice crease, and yogurt becomes essential.
4. Gelatin
Gelatin is a type of protein that comes from animal collagen. Allergic to gelatin is another food allergy that you need to know about. Some food products, such as gums, gummy candies, and marshmallows, contain a considerable amount of gelatin.
Not many people know about this, but many shots and vaccines include gelatin, such as flu shots. And in many cases, people develop allergic reactions after getting a vaccination.
5. Red Meat
Red meat allergy is one of the top allergies for which you must be careful when consuming lamb, beef, and pork. The allergic reaction is slow but leads to troubling results. The component that causes red meat allergy is known as alpha-galactose (alpha-gal).
Alpha-gal is a carbohydrate that upon leading to a reaction in body takes more time to recover. Because of this, the allergic response is sometimes delayed as opposed to the usual protein allergen.
6. Fish
Another type of food allergy that predominantly affects people is because of fish. Primarily occurring in adults, fish allergy can lead to severe and potential allergic reactions. Often the symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting, and sometimes the severity leads to anaphylaxis.
The occurrence of fish allergy typically happens because fish consumption may contain viruses, toxins, and bacteria that lead to complications. The change in protein is another vital point that must be considered for fish allergy and often lead to severe results that demand treatments and medication dosage.
When to Get Tested for Food Allergies?
Food allergy can lead to complicated results and often to death. However, the ratio is a little. Still, you need to keep the complications and fatalities in your mind. This will help you learn about the food items and products you are allergic to and take the right measures before it is too late.
Getting a lab test for food allergy is recommended. While some take skin prick tests, a blood test is often mentioned to complete their allergy evaluation. Moreover, a blood test is also required for patients with antihistamines, dermatographism, and even skin rashes. Furthermore, a blood test is also done to evaluate some disorders associated with the immune system, including angioedema, chronic urticarial, and primary immunodeficiency disorders.
The Final Takeaway!
Ignoring the symptoms and the need to get a food allergy test is the worst you can do to yourself. Getting a test in the early days will help you recognize the signs and help you take the right measures right when you need them. This also enables you to avoid consuming the products and items reacting adversely. So, get a food allergy test and ensure your well-being and health at all times.
