Food allergies are a common health concern, with millions of people affected around the world. While most of us are aware of common allergens like peanuts, shellfish, or dairy, there are several foods that people don’t even realize they could be allergic to. Allergic reactions to food can range from mild discomfort to life-threatening symptoms, making it crucial to know what might trigger them.
Why It’s Important to Be Aware of Uncommon Food Allergies
Many of these foods can be sneaky allergens, hiding in everyday meals and snacks. Understanding the potential risks associated with foods like corn, bananas, and sunflower seeds can help you make better choices for your health. While some allergies may cause only mild reactions, others can be life-threatening, so being informed is key to protecting yourself and your loved ones.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), food allergies affect an estimated 32 million Americans, and the number is increasing each year. Even if you’ve never had a reaction before, it’s possible to develop food allergies later in life. Knowing the signs and symptoms is important for early detection and prevention of more serious reactions.
What To Do If You Suspect a Food Allergy
If you experience symptoms like hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal distress after eating certain foods, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can perform tests to determine whether you have a food allergy or intolerance.
Working with an allergist can help you identify which foods are causing the reaction and provide guidance on how to manage your allergies. If you have severe reactions, they may recommend carrying an epinephrine auto-injector, such as an EpiPen, in case of emergency. Lets explore seven foods that most people don’t know they could be allergic to, along with symptoms to watch out for.
1. Gelatin
Gelatin is often found in gummy candies, marshmallows, and some types of desserts, but it’s also hidden in vaccines and medications. Many people don’t realize that they can develop an allergy to gelatin, which is derived from animal collagen.
Symptoms of Gelatin Allergy
Symptoms can include skin reactions, gastrointestinal discomfort, and in more severe cases, anaphylaxis. Gelatin allergies are rare but can be serious, especially when gelatin is used in medical products.
How to Avoid Gelatin Allergy
To avoid gelatin, read food labels carefully and look for vegetarian or vegan alternatives that don’t use gelatin. Additionally, if you have a known gelatin allergy, inform your doctor so they can avoid using gelatin-based medical products.
2. Corn
Corn is a staple food in many diets around the world, but surprisingly, it can also be an allergen. Corn allergies are often overlooked because corn is found in many processed foods, making it hard to identify as the culprit behind an allergic reaction.
Symptoms of Corn Allergy
People with a corn allergy may experience symptoms like hives, swelling, stomach pain, vomiting, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases. Since corn is in many products, including corn syrup, popcorn, and even some medications, avoiding it can be tricky.
How to Avoid Corn Allergy
If you suspect a corn allergy, it’s important to check food labels for ingredients like cornstarch or high-fructose corn syrup. You may also need to avoid processed foods and stick to fresh, whole foods to ensure there are no hidden traces of corn.
3. Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are a popular snack, especially among health-conscious individuals. However, not many people are aware that sunflower seeds can trigger allergic reactions. Sunflower seed allergies are relatively rare but still important to note.
Symptoms of Sunflower Seed Allergy
Symptoms include skin rashes, vomiting, mouth itching, and breathing difficulties. Some people may experience a more delayed reaction, while others might notice symptoms within minutes of exposure.
How to Avoid Sunflower Seeds Allergy
If you suspect a sunflower seed allergy, check for them in foods like granola bars, breads, or trail mixes. Sunflower oil is another common ingredient in many processed foods, so keep an eye on labels.
4. Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are becoming a more common allergen, and they’re found in a wide variety of foods, from breads and bagels to hummus and salad dressings. While sesame allergies were less known in the past, they’ve gained attention in recent years as more people report reactions.
Symptoms of Sesame Allergy
Reactions can include hives, swelling of the lips or eyes, coughing, stomach cramps, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, sesame allergies are considered one of the top allergens, and their prevalence is increasing globally.
How to Avoid Sesame Allergy
If you’re allergic to sesame, it’s important to read labels carefully and avoid foods that list sesame, tahini, or anything related to sesame oil. Some cosmetics and personal care products may also contain sesame oil, so double-check those labels too.
5. Bananas
Bananas are a common and beloved fruit, but they can also trigger allergic reactions, especially in people with latex allergies. This is known as latex-fruit syndrome, where the proteins in certain fruits like bananas are similar to those found in latex, causing a cross-reaction.
Symptoms of Banana Allergy
Mild reactions to bananas might include itching of the mouth, throat, or lips. In more serious cases, symptoms can escalate to hives, difficulty breathing, or stomach upset. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology explains that people allergic to latex often develop reactions to bananas, avocado, and chestnuts due to their similar protein structure.
How to Avoid Bananas Allergy
If you’re allergic to bananas, it’s best to avoid them and any products that contain banana extracts. You should also be cautious of other fruits that might cause a cross-reaction, such as avocados and kiwi.
6. Spices
While spices are generally considered safe, some people develop allergies to certain spices, including cumin, coriander, paprika, and turmeric. Spice allergies are harder to diagnose because they often involve multiple ingredients in a dish.
Symptoms of Spice Allergies
Common symptoms include skin irritation, itching, rashes, and respiratory issues. Since spices are often used in small amounts, pinpointing the exact allergen can be difficult.
How to Avoid Spices Allergies
If you suspect a spice allergy, work with an allergist to identify the specific spice triggering the reaction. You may need to avoid pre-packaged or processed foods, which often list “spices” without specifying which ones are included.
7. Avocados
Avocado has surged in popularity as a healthy fat source, but it can also be an unexpected allergen for some people. Like bananas, avocados are linked to latex-fruit syndrome, meaning people with latex allergies may also react to avocados.
Symptoms of Avocado Allergy
Symptoms may include itching in the mouth, swelling, hives, or even difficulty breathing in more severe cases. According to the American Latex Allergy Association, cross-reactivity between latex and foods like avocados is well-documented.
How to Avoid Avocado Allergy
Avoiding avocados might be challenging, especially in restaurants or pre-made foods where it’s a common ingredient. Be sure to ask about ingredients and opt for other sources of healthy fats, like olive oil or nuts.
Conclusion
Food allergies are more common than you might think, and some of the foods we’ve listed are lesser-known culprits that can trigger allergic reactions. Corn, sesame seeds, bananas, sunflower seeds, spices, gelatin, and avocados are all foods that could cause unexpected symptoms. Being aware of these potential allergens and taking steps to avoid them can help you stay healthy and safe.
So, the next time you’re enjoying a snack or planning a meal, consider whether one of these hidden allergens might be affecting you. With the right information, you can take control of your health and avoid unpleasant, and sometimes dangerous, allergic reactions.