Allergy Archives - Lifelab Testing

Onion Allergy Guide

Posted on 23rd January 202323rd January 2023 by Kate Young

An onion allergy occurs when your body mistakes onions for harmful substances. This, in turn, triggers the immune system to release antibodies to fight the “harmful” substance, and that’s when we witness onion allergy symptoms such as itchiness, vomiting, trouble breathing, and others. Onions are a common ingredient in salads and all cooked meals. It is hard to come across a restaurant or home where onions aren’t used as a primary ingredient in making stews, curries, and stir-fries. This is why it can be challenging to manage an onion allergy.

When suffering from onion allergy, different people get affected in varying ways. For example, one may get a reaction from smelling or touching onions or consuming onions, whether raw or cooked. While some people get reactions from only smelling, touching or eating raw onions (raw onion allergy), others get the same symptoms from cooked onions. Onions are part of the genus allium, which also consists of shallots, leeks, garlic, and chives. If you’re allergic to onions, it is possible to get the same reaction with other plants in the allium family. Sometimes, it may not be an allergic reaction but rather a sensitivity. This cross-reactivity is because these plants contain similar internal makeup, which the immune system can mistake for onions, producing the same immune attack resulting in onion allergy symptoms.

Not all alliums are edible; others are ornamental (inedible) and may trigger a reaction in some people through touch. If you’re allergic to onions, this means that you’ll react to all types of onions. For example, you’ll also suffer from a red onion allergy and a spring onion allergy. There won’t be any exceptions to the types of onions you’ll react towards.

Onion allergy symptoms

Symptoms of onion allergy vary from one person to the other regarding mildness and severity. Once you smell, consume or touch onions if you’re allergic, you can expect symptoms to show up immediately or within a span of two hours. There are, however, others who may not experience the allergy symptoms for a few more hours. If you’re allergic to onions, you will experience a few of these symptoms that may be internal or external. These common symptoms of onion allergy include:

Itching and tingling in the mouth.
Hives or rashes all over the body.
Nausea and vomiting.
Swelling of lips, tongue, lips, face, or throat.
Difficulty breathing.
Nasal congestion.
Stomach pain.
Diarrhoea.
Gas.

The above symptoms often are mild and can be easily managed by home treatment. However, if you experience severe gastrointestinal issues, it is wise to visit a doctor. It is common for the symptoms to stop once the onions have left your body. In rare cases, however, onion allergy can result in life-threatening symptoms. Anaphylaxis associated with onion allergy has been reported before after consuming raw onion {1}. When one experiences anaphylaxis, there is a dire need to immediately access medical help, as this condition can easily take one’s life. There are specific symptoms you can witness that will help diagnose anaphylaxis. These are:

Confusion.
Dizziness.
Trouble breathing.
Low blood pressure.
Loss of consciousness or fainting.
Sweating.

Upon getting urgent care, a doctor will prescribe an Epinephrine pen (EpiPen). One should always carry this in person in case there are any accidents and anaphylaxis occurs. If you’re with someone and you can see they’re suffering from anaphylaxis, use an EpiPen if they have one and still rush them to the emergency room for observation. Observation is essential since these symptoms can recur after a few hours, so it’s best to stay under the doctor’s care.

Onion and garlic allergy

If you’re suffering from an onion allergy, it is common to find that you’ll have the same reaction to garlic. These two ingredients are from the same genus (allium), which means the proteins in these foods are similar, and the body mistakes one for the other. This confusion that goes on in the immune system is known as cross-reactivity. You may also find that you’ll have the same allergic reaction to other alliums like chives, shallots, leeks, and scallions. The cross-reactivity level for different vegetables in this genus varies amongst different individuals.

Onion Intolerance

complete-intolerance-front — Our Complete Intolerance Test Box.

The most common and well-known reaction to onions is intolerance. Onion intolerance often comes with many gastrointestinal symptoms. Often with onion intolerances, you may find that you have an underlying condition that is leading to all the gastrointestinal mishaps. In such cases, you’ll need treatment for the core ailment, which could eliminate the intolerance. However, in other cases, you’ll find that your doctor won’t be able to see any underlying conditions that could be leading to symptoms similar to the ones we’ve mentioned. It can be difficult to determine which food is causing an intolerance, as symptoms can occur days after consuming the problem food. To be sure which food item is causing symptoms, you could take an Intolerance Test. Our complete intolerance test looks at reactions to onion, garlic and 157 other items.

Onion Allergy Testing

If you have a reaction every time you consume onions, you should see your doctor, give them your history, and explain your symptoms. If you’re experiencing allergy symptoms but are unsure what is the cause, you may benefit from taking an allergy test. An allergy test will check your sample against all common allergens in your food and immediate environment then we’ll send you a list of the foods you need to avoid because you’re allergic.

Our allergy test is ideal since you don’t have to make a doctor’s appointment or wait in their office for hours on end to know what’s causing your symptoms. You can order easily online, get delivery within three days, take a sample, and once you send it back you’ll have your results within seven days via mail. With this test, you don’t have to stop working because we’ll take care of everything else while you have an uninterrupted life.

Foods that can cause onion allergy

When suffering from an onion allergy, you must avoid alliums, including shallots, garlic, chives, mugwort tea, leeks, and scallions. Avoiding all of these is the easiest way to prevent getting any symptoms. However, it can be very difficult to avoid onions since they’re in many processed, prepared, and packaged foods. When reading labels under the term ‘seasonings’, you’ll often find that alliums fall into that category. Always read labels carefully; if you’re unsure about the components, call the manufacturer, and they will let you know. You can, however, avoid foods with unclear labels.

It is also important to note that the FDA doesn’t require manufacturers to list onions as an allergen. However, manufacturers are required to list all ingredients. If the ingredient list doesn’t seem to tell you all you need to know, it is safe to pass it up and only deal with fresh ingredients rather than pre-packaged foods. By doing so, you’ll be taking extra care of your body since you’ll know every ingredient that goes into your meal. It is common to find alliums in foods like:

Flavoured cheese.
Salsa or Pico de gallo.
Flavouring packets.
Broths.
Frozen or pre-made pizza crust.
Frozen entries.
Crackers.
Premade soups and sauces.
Deli meats.
Frozen foods.

If you’re generally allergic to alliums, you’ll also have a reaction to flowering amaryllis plants, which are primarily ornamental alliums and various varieties of lilies. Be extra careful when contacting these types of flowers, as they may cause a reaction if you’re extra sensitive.

Onion allergy treatment

When you have an onion allergy, there are various ways you can manage it at home. These include:

Epinephrine: This autoinjector is used in treating anaphylaxis that doctors prescribe.
Hydrocortisone cream: Topical use can help reduce itching and inflammation.
Aloe Vera: If you have itchy hives, aloe vera can help soothe the redness that comes with itching, even though it can’t help histamines level in your blood.
Antihistamines: You can find these available as sprayed medications or oral. This medication blocks histamine production, reducing or eliminating minor allergy reactions like nasal congestion, hives, and itching.
Albuterol sulphate inhaler: This bronchodilator helps increase airflow through the bronchial tubes.

Even though the above forms of treatment can soothe your immediate symptoms, the best way to treat allergies is by avoiding these trigger foods. In this case, you will need to avoid onions and some alliums, if not all. Even though avoiding these will be hard at first, you will also enjoy a symptom-free life which is better than rushing to the emergency room every time. You can easily enjoy your meals without alliums and onion allergy symptoms.

References

Arena, A., Cislaghi, C., & Falagiani, P. (2000). Anaphylactic reaction to the ingestion of raw onion. A case report. Allergologia et immunopathologia, 28(5), 287–289.

Kiwi Allergy Guide

Posted on 9th January 202310th January 2023 by Kate Young

Kiwi, also known as Chinese gooseberry, is a fruit which is relatively common in people’s diets as it is rich in nutrients and tasty. However, there are some individuals who experience uncomfortable symptoms after eating or touching the fruit. Kiwis can impact individuals in different ways, with some people experiencing severe reactions that others only notice mildly.

Most kiwi fruit allergy symptoms are mild, but this does not mean that individuals cannot respond severely, even sometimes with anaphylaxis. It has been suggested that it is more common for children to experience severe reactions to kiwi compared to adults. Even though having a kiwi allergy means you’ll not tolerate eating kiwis, it can also lead to cross-reactivity with other foods, pollen, or latex. Kiwi allergy is becoming a common issue worldwide, which is why we’ve created this Kiwi Allergy Guide to tell you more about symptoms, cross-reactivity and testing.

What is kiwi allergy?

A kiwi allergy occurs when your immune system mistakes the proteins present in kiwi as harmful substances like viruses or bacteria. After this mistake, the immune system sends white blood cells, IgE antibodies, and other compounds to fight off the “harmful” substances. When the immune system responds in such a manner, even though you don’t have any harmful substances in the body, you’ll witness kiwi allergy symptoms. The proteins present in kiwi fruit that result in allergy symptoms include actinidin, thaumatin-like protein, and kiwellin. However, studies show that the compound 30 kDa thiol-protease actinidin is the major kiwi allergen {1}. People with a kiwi allergy also tend to be hypersensitive to other foods.

Kiwi allergy symptoms

Kiwi fruit allergy symptoms are divided into two categories because there is true kiwi allergy and oral allergy syndrome.

Oral allergy syndrome

Also known as pollen food allergy syndrome (PFAS), the body accidentally confuses certain foods for pollen. This leads to the production of mild allergic symptoms. These symptoms include:

Itching of the mouth, lips, and tongue after eating the fruit.
Skin rashes.

You will notice that Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS) symptoms are rising or at their worst when pollen counts are high. OAS symptoms often only last for a few minutes before they disappear.

True kiwi allergy symptoms

When experiencing a true allergy to kiwi, the symptoms tend to be more severe than OAS. If one experiences symptoms like anaphylaxis, there is a need to get them to the emergency room. These include:

Abdominal pains.
Rashes.
Vomiting.
Trouble breathing/anaphylaxis (more common than in OAS).
Eczema is a skin condition that involves raised, itchy patches.
Hives.

If you have a mild reaction when eating kiwi, such as itching around your mouth, it is best to stop eating the fruit because the next time you consume it, the symptoms will reappear. Most true kiwi allergies happen within the first 20-30 minutes of consumption.

Kiwi latex allergy

Latex is a natural product produced by rubber trees and other similar trees. You’ll often find latex in condoms and surgical gloves. Latex allergy often increases the risk of getting different allergic reactions like kiwi allergy. Kiwi and latex share at least two similar allergens hence why they’re tightly connected to each other. If you’re allergic to latex, you might also have a higher risk of getting an allergy to bananas and avocados. The reason for this relationship between latex and fruits is due to the similarity in the compounds present in these fruits and latex. Latex compounds are also similar to compounds present in certain vegetables, fruits, nuts, and tree pollen. So, an allergy to kiwi may also mean you’ll have a latex allergy, through cross-reactivity. Having a kiwi allergy also means that you may be allergic to other fruits and vegetables that share similar compounds to this fruit.

How long does kiwi allergy last?

Kiwi allergy symptoms start a few minutes after contact or consumption of the fruit, mainly within the first two hours of consuming the fruit. For children, it’s possible that they may outgrow their allergies once they enter teenagehood. However, for adults, you need to find ways to manage the allergy since kiwi fruit will always be an allergy you need to deal with. Specific skin-related symptoms like hives and rashes may take at least two days to clear up in the short term. However, if you suffer from a severe allergy to kiwi, you must visit the hospital even after using an EpiPen because sometimes the symptoms reoccur approximately four hours after the first symptoms. Hence, it is best to stay under the doctor’s supervision if the symptoms reoccur in severe cases.

Kiwi allergy in children

Kiwi is a known allergen, and even though kiwi fruit is full of vitamins and nutrients, you shouldn’t wean your baby with kiwi if you have a history of allergies in your family. Babies have weaker immunity and tend to have many allergies even though they outgrow them late on. You can always consult your doctor if you’re worried about kiwi. If your child has an upset stomach, bloating, or even diarrhoea after eating kiwi fruit, these can be symptoms of an allergy. Some other symptoms you may see from an allergic reaction to kiwi include:

Redness or swelling around the lips and mouth.
Excessive crying.
Irritability.
Difficulty breathing.
Scaly or red patches on the skin.
Hives.

If you suspect your child may be allergic to kiwi, you should take them to a doctor if their symptoms are mild and resolve quickly, or straight to the emergency room if they are severe.

Kiwi allergy testing

basic allergy test — Basic Allergy Test.

If you suspect you may be suffering from a kiwi fruit allergy, then we recommend you visit your doctor and present your symptoms, and they will help you know whether you may have any underlying conditions that could be causing your symptoms. If you’re unsure if kiwi is the specific cause of your allergy symptoms and want to gain more insight, you could order yourself a simple home Allergy Test. At our laboratory, we will test your sample against common allergens in your environment and your food. After a comprehensive review by our scientists, you will get your results on your phone in seven days, showing you foods you need to keep away from since you’re allergic to them.

An allergy test only tells you what you need to avoid. However, you’re the one who needs to do the heavy lifting. The only way to manage an allergy to kiwi is by avoiding the fruit in all ways possible. While some people can consume cooked kiwi since the proteins are inactivated, others can’t. However, you don’t need to try cooking kiwi down to eat it; you can always substitute it for other healthy and nutritious fruits. Be careful when eating salads, drinking smoothies, and generally eating food not prepared by you at home. If you’re eating somewhere other than your home, always let the host or staff know about your allergy so you can prevent yourself from suffering from any kiwi allergy symptoms.

References

Hassan, A. K., & Venkatesh, Y. P. (2015). An overview of fruit allergy and the causative allergens. European annals of allergy and clinical immunology, 47(6), 180-187.

Garlic Allergy and Intolerance Guide

Posted on 28th November 202228th November 2022 by Felicia Oladipo

Garlic is a bulbous plant that is used to enhance the taste of many savoury dishes, in all traditional cuisines around the world. Garlic has a pungent smell and a savoury flavour that it adds to meals. However, if you have a garlic allergy, the mere inhalation or its aroma can cause reactions all over your body. Garlic belongs to the allium family, meaning that if you’re allergic to garlic, you may also experience reactions to other spices like chives, leeks, and shallots. Garlic allergy and onion allergy are commonly linked because most patients experience an allergy to both bulbs as they contain specific similar allergens {1}. Garlic allergy is relatively uncommon compared to garlic intolerance, but it still does exist and can be life-threatening. If you’re allergic to garlic, this means that consuming raw or cooked garlic will cause the same reactions, and it’s only best to avoid this spice. Within this guide, we will discuss both garlic allergy and intolerance, including symptoms and ways of testing.

Causes of garlic allergy

Garlic allergy, similar to other allergies, occurs when the body comes in contact with a foreign substance, and your immune system reacts to it. When you have a garlic allergy, your immune system assumes that this substance is “harmful” even though, in reality, it’s not. When your immune system releases antibodies to fight something that’s not typically harmful to the body, it’s what we refer to as an allergic reaction. Food allergies are a specific type of allergy that can be triggered by even the smallest amount of the trigger object or food. Food allergies affect around 8% of children and 3% of adults.

The most common types of allergies are shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, milk, and eggs. Compared to these, garlic allergy is among the rare allergies people suffer from. According to most clinical trials, garlic’s most common side effects are body odour, bad breath, and garlic allergy.

Garlic allergy symptoms

Garlic allergy symptoms are often experienced within a few minutes of contact with garlic, but for others it may take a few hours before they can witness them. The most common symptoms are those that affect the skin, like rashes and asthma. These garlic allergy symptoms can show up even after touching or inhaling garlic. Symptoms of garlic allergy can either be mild or severe depending on the individual’s reaction. Symptoms include:

Skin inflammation.
A tingling sensation of the lips, mouth, or tongue.
Nasal congestion or runny nose.
Itchy nose.
Sneezing.
Itchy or watery eyes.
Shortness of breath or wheezing.
Nausea and vomiting.
Stomach cramps.
Hives, itching, or redness of the skin.
Swelling around the mouth, tongue, face, or throat.
Anaphylaxis.
Fast heartbeat.
Stomach pain.
Diarrhoea.
Dizziness or fainting.

Differentiating garlic allergy and garlic intolerance

Garlic allergy, as seen above, can be very dangerous because when symptoms like anaphylaxis show up, this tends to be life-threatening and needs immediate medical help. On the other hand, garlic intolerance is not as serious and can’t be life-threatening. The severity of garlic intolerance increases with the amount of garlic you consume. Food allergies are often confused with food intolerance, which also applies to garlic. It is wise to note that garlic intolerance symptoms often dwell in the gastrointestinal tract. In contrast, garlic allergy symptoms often include skin reactions, like contact dermatitis.

While garlic allergy results from the immune system mistaking garlic for a dangerous substance, food intolerance is due to the body being sensitive to the proteins present in garlic or the body lacking enzymes required to digest proteins in garlic. When you suffer from garlic allergy, it doesn’t matter how much you consume; you will still experience the symptoms. However, the amount of garlic you often consume matters in garlic intolerance. Most people have some tolerance for the food they are intolerant to. So, if you consume too much of that food or ingredient, that’s when things go wrong, and you experience severe symptoms.

The symptoms of garlic allergy happen within a few minutes to two hours. In garlic intolerance, it may take up to three days to witness the symptoms, which makes it hard to pinpoint the cause to a specific food item or ingredient. Food intolerance symptoms take a long time to show up because food must reach the colon first before you can see or witness any signs.

Intolerance to garlic

Garlic intolerance is caused by the lack of certain digestive enzymes that are supposed to help break down or process garlic. Intolerance to garlic can also be caused by other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease, or even stress. Intolerance to garlic and other foods is often a result of a myriad of issues, and that’s why we advise you to talk to your doctor to check for underlying problems before you can take our Intolerance Test kit.

When a certain food isn’t broken down in the small intestines, it gets pushed to the colon. Here, it ferments and forms gas, and that’s when you start hearing the stomach rumble, and you get gassiness and stomach cramps. Having garlic intolerance can be very uncomfortable because of these symptoms. It is common for these symptoms to subside and finally come to a halt once you’ve passed on the food, which in this case is garlic.

Garlic intolerance symptoms

Symptoms of garlic intolerance dwell in the digestive tract but are not limited to there. The symptoms of garlic intolerance often vary from one individual to the next based on your level of intolerance for that specific food item. Symptoms of garlic intolerance include:

Bloating.
Gassiness.
Stomach ache or cramps.
Diarrhoea.
Coughing.
Headaches.
Nausea.
A runny nose.

Garlic intolerance remedy

The best way to remedy garlic intolerance is by avoiding consuming garlic. The same applies to garlic allergy. It is possible to find substitutes for this flavour and add it to your meals to prevent experiencing symptoms after eating food loaded with garlic. You can also talk to your doctor (once you’ve proved you have garlic intolerance by taking an Intolerance Test). Under their supervision, they can help you go on a garlic-free diet for a couple of weeks, and after you’re finally feeling well, they’ll help you reintroduce it slowly. This method can help you know the amount of garlic you can use without experiencing a reaction. However, this method is not effective for garlic allergies, where the only remedy is to completely cut it out from your meals.

You may also notice that when you have a garlic allergy or garlic intolerance, you will also suffer from reactions when you consume foods from the same family as garlic. These include:

Onions.
Chives.
Leeks.
Shallots.

Garlic is part of the allium family, meaning you may be allergic or intolerant to the above foods. That’s because the proteins or allergens in these foods are similar to each other, and if you’re allergic, your immune system will react to them in the same way. This is known as cross-reactivity. You will also need to be careful about what you’re eating by asking for the ingredients or checking the ingredients list when food shopping. You’ll find that most soups, pre-made marinades, and mixed spices contain garlic, and you’ll need to keep away from these. An allergy to garlic means that you will always have to be careful to avoid any contact you may have with this spice. Sometimes people with garlic allergy can also experience cross-reactivity with pollen allergies like birch pollen {2}.

Testing for garlic allergy and garlic intolerance

If you suspect you may suffer from either garlic allergy or intolerance, you need to talk to your doctor about your history and symptoms. Doing so will help the doctor determine what issue you may be having and whether there could be underlying diseases. If there aren’t any, you can take an Intolerance Test or an Allergy Test. You can pick these depending on which symptoms you have based on what’s listed above, or read more on our page dedicated to allergies vs intolerances. But if you’re still unsure, you can take an Allergy and Intolerance Test to check for both.

These home-lab test kits are great at helping you determine what could be causing the symptoms. It could be a garlic allergy, intolerance, or other foods you consume regularly. These tests check for common allergens to help you determine what is the cause of your symptoms. You can order your preferred test kit online, have it delivered within three days, and once you’ve collected your sample, send it back to the lab for testing, upon which you’ll receive your test result within a week. Find out more about your body and health without even leaving your home!

References

Almogren, A., Shakoor, Z., & Adam, M. H. (2013). Garlic and onion sensitization among Saudi patients screened for food allergy: a hospital based study. African Health Sciences, 13(3), 689-693.
Asero, R., Mistrello, G., Roncarolo, D., Antoniottib, P. L., & Falagiani, P. (1998). A case of garlic allergy. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 101(3), 427-428.

Avocado Allergy Guide

Posted on 24th October 202214th December 2022 by Kate Young

Avocados are a popular fruit used in salads, brunches, sandwiches and guacamole. They offer a range of health benefits, as they are high in fibre, healthy fat and nutrients. However, for some people, avocados trigger uncomfortable intolerance or allergy symptoms. Within this guide, we will discuss the difference between an avocado allergy and intolerance, including symptoms and methods of testing.

Are avocado allergies common?

Avocado allergies are uncommon, and are not considered one of the most common allergens in the UK. There are two main causes of this allergy, latex fruit syndrome and oral allergy syndrome.

Oral allergy syndrome

Fruits and vegetables that grow near pollen can cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to pollen. Your body can mistake certain proteins in avocados as pollen which generates symptoms for those who have a pollen allergy. As explained in the name, most symptoms in this case occur orally through swelling or itchiness of the mouth, lips or throat.

Latex fruit syndrome

Most common cases of avocado allergy are among those who are also allergic to latex. This phenomenon is called latex fruit syndrome, which occurs because the proteins within latex are similar to those in fruits and vegetables. Therefore, people who are allergic to latex may experience symptoms after consuming certain foods, especially banana, kiwi, chestnut and avocado. It is estimated that 30-50% of individuals who are allergic to latex also experience symptoms when eating plant-based fresh foods. Allergy to avocado without latex sensitisation or oral allergy syndrome is rare, but has been documented before.

Avocado nut allergy

There is not a strong cross-reactivity between nuts and avocados, yet it has been suggested that avocados and chestnuts may both cause symptoms as explained previously by latex fruit syndrome.

Avocado allergies symptoms

Avocado food allergy symptoms include:

Hives or rash.
Tightness of the throat.
Wheezing.
Itchiness and swelling of the mouth or throat.
Stomach pain.
Itchy, watering eyes.

For people who have a severe avocado allergy, there is the chance that consumption could result in anaphylaxis. These symptoms include breathing difficulties, severe asthma, and swelling of the throat which should be taken seriously. If the person experiencing these symptoms owns an adrenaline auto-injector this should be used, and an ambulance should be called as soon as possible.

If you’re unsure if avocado is the cause of your allergy symptoms, you are advised to undertake an allergy test. Through using this at home allergy test, your blood sample will be tested against 38 common allergens. This way you can rule out the main causes of allergies, since avocado is a very rare allergy your symptoms could be caused by a different food item.

Avocado allergies in babies

Avocado is a great food for babies since it has many health benefits and is a perfect texture when ripe. Avocado allergy in babies is rare, yet when introducing new foods into your baby’s diet you should always be cautious. If your baby has experienced allergy symptoms after eating banana, you should be more wary and monitor them closely after trying avocado due to latex fruit allergy.

Allergy symptoms in babies include:

Hives or rash.
Itching.
Red, watery eyes.
Wheezing or coughing.

Avocado intolerance

An intolerance is most commonly caused by lacking the enzyme required to digest the problem food, in this case avocados. Therefore it is a digestive response, in comparison to an allergy which is an immune response, indicating the key difference between the two issues.

It is also possible that individuals are intolerant to histamine that is contained within the avocado. In this instance, people will experience symptoms if they eat a food that contains a lot of histamine.

You can test for intolerances from the comfort of your home with our complete intolerance test, which analyses your sample against avocado specifically as well as 158 other potential triggers. From this test, you will be able to get a clearer overview of your health and begin to make changes to prevent symptoms for good.

Avocado intolerance symptoms

If you are intolerant to avocado, common symptoms you may experience are:

Stomach pain and gas.
Headaches or migraines.
Bloating.
Diarrhoea.
Heartburn or indigestion.

Avocado intolerance stomach pain relief

If you are suffering from stomach pain as a result of an intolerance, it is likely that your symptoms will subside once the food has exited your body. While you are feeling the pain, if it’s safe for you to do so you can take pain killers. Otherwise, you could try a hot water bottle or drink some chamomile tea to ease discomfort.

Avocado alternatives

If you’re looking to substitute avocados in your diet,it’s beneficial to consider what functionyour avocado was serving.If you want to replicate the mild flavour and texture, then avocado alternative options include:

Mashed banana.
Plantains.
Nut butters.
Hummus.

However, be cautious if you do replace avocados for bananas, as there is a chance you willexperience the same symptoms due to latex fruit syndrome discussed previously.

Final thoughts on avocado allergy and intolerance

If you believe you have an allergy or intolerance to avocado, the first step is to confirm this with a test kit. Despite being a rare intolerance, our intolerance test even tests for avocado as well as 158 other items. If you’re unsure of which test to order, or you have further queries, please don’t hesitate to get in contact with a helpful member of our customer service team.

Milk Allergy vs Lactose Intolerance: What’s the Difference

Posted on 11th October 202218th January 2023 by Kate Young

Milk is a common ingredient in our meals, especially curries and stews. However, consuming milk can be dangerous if one suffers from a milk allergy and bothersome if one suffers from lactose intolerance. Milk allergy and lactose intolerance are very common conditions, especially in infants. Approximately 2% to 3% of children below three years suffer from milk allergy. However, this isn’t a lifelong issue since more than 80% of children outgrow this allergy before they turn sixteen.

Lactose intolerance and milk allergy are often categorised as the same condition, even though both affect different body parts and have varying symptoms. Milk allergy is a broad term, whereas lactose intolerance is quite specific because it involves milk sugar. In contrast, milk allergy is caused by an immune reaction to proteins present in milk. Within this guide, we will go into further detail about the differences between milk allergy and lactose intolerance, including how to test for these conditions.

Milk allergy

When you suffer from a milk allergy, it’s because your body mistakes milk proteins as invaders, which causes the immune system to act by attacking these proteins, thus resulting in severe symptoms sometimes. When your immune system assumes there areinvaders in the body, it sends forth other substances, which often result in those milk allergy symptoms you might experience. Unlike lactose intolerance, milk allergy can be life-threatening in rare cases. So, if one has a milk allergy, it is best to avoid all dairy products or any products containing milk.

Milk allergy symptoms

Most people who are allergic to milk suffer from cow’s milk allergy. However, it is common to be allergic to milk from other mammals like buffalo, sheep, and goats. Symptoms of milk allergy vary from one person to another, meaning one individual may have mild symptoms but others will find consumption potentially life-threatening. Some of the most immediate symptoms after consumption of milk products include:

Hives.
Wheezing.
Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat.
Itchiness or a tingling feeling around the lips or mouth.
Coughing or shortness of breath.
Vomiting.

Some milk allergy symptoms may take a little bit longer to show. These include:

Loose stools or diarrhoea, which may contain blood.
Runny nose.
Watery eyes.
Abdominal cramps.
Colic, in babies.

Baby milk allergy

Most baby formulas contain cow’s milk. If you have a child, you will notice the first symptoms of milk allergy days to weeks after introducing the milk-based formula {1}. Milk allergy has a rare occurrence in breastfed children. Milk allergy symptoms vary between infants, and even though the first reaction may be mild, the next one could be severe and life-threatening, so you should keep a keen eye on their symptoms. The most common signs of milk allergy in babies include:

Skin reactions (itchiness, redness, swelling around the face).
Digestive problems (like diarrhoea, constipation, stomach ache, colic, or vomiting).
Hay fever symptoms.
Eczema.

Luckily, most children find they no longer suffer from milk allergy as they grow older. When your child has immediate symptoms like swelling in the mouth or throat, cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and noisy breathing, it is life-threatening anaphylaxis, and you should call the emergency services for help. If you have an EpiPen, you can use it on your baby and then go to the hospital because sometimes symptoms of anaphylaxis reoccur within hours of the first symptoms. It would be wise for your child to stay under observation. If your child has a milk allergy, it is recommended to have an EpiPen in case of emergencies.

Difference between lactose intolerance and milk allergy

Lactose intolerance is mainly caused due to insufficient lactase enzyme, thus affecting the digestive system and causing gastrointestinal symptoms. Milk allergy, however, involves the immune system. This means that the immune system mistakes milk proteins for bacteria or viruses, thus releasing histamines which create symptoms of milk allergy. A difference between lactose intolerance and milk allergy is that one affects the immune system while the other impacts the digestive tract.

Lactose intolerance can cause uncomfortable symptoms, but it can’t be life-threatening unlike milk allergy. In rare cases, milk allergy results in anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. In contrast, lactose intolerance is caused by lactose, a sugar in milk. Milk allergy results from an immune response to proteins present in milk.

Lactose intolerance

Lactose intolerance is a condition affecting the gastrointestinal tract upon consumption of milk and dairy products. Dairy products contain a sugar known as lactase. People suffering from lactose intolerance tend to have insufficient lactase enzymes in their bodies. The lactase enzyme is what digests lactose. So, when you have inadequate lactase enzymes in your body, the sugar in milk isn’t digested in your small intestines as it should be but is instead moved to your colon. When in the colon, undigested lactose is broken down by bacteria causing bloating, gas, and diarrhoea, which can be very uncomfortable but not dangerous—most symptoms of lactose intolerance centre around the gastrointestinal tract {2}.

Lactose intolerance symptoms

Lactose intolerance and milk allergy share some gastrointestinal symptoms. You may notice that the symptoms vary from one person to the next when suffering from lactose intolerance. Common signs of lactose intolerance include:

Diarrhoea.
Nausea and sometimes vomiting.
Stomach cramps.
Bloating.
Gas.

How long do lactose intolerance symptoms last?

Since lactose intolerance symptoms mostly happen in the digestive tract, it takes around thirty minutes to two hours for the symptoms to start showing after consuming dairy. These symptoms can last as long as there is dairy in the digestive tract. Once you’ve passed it all out, which can take up to 48 hours, the symptoms will stop. The mildness or severity of lactose intolerance symptoms varies from one individual to the next.

What happens if you ignore lactose intolerance?

Milk contains proteins, calcium, and vitamins A, B12, and D. Lactose also serves as a tool that helps you absorb other essential minerals such as zinc and magnesium. If you keep consuming lactose even though you know of your intolerance, this may affect your health. You will experience worsened symptoms of lactose intolerance, reduced quality of life, and lower mood.

When you have chronic diarrhoea as a result of lactose intolerance, this may lead to anaemia, malnutrition, and unhealthy weight loss. You may risk developing:

Osteoporosis: A condition where weak and thin bones can easily break.
Osteopenia: A condition where one has low bone mineral density. If untreated, it can result in osteoporosis.
Malnutrition: A condition where the food you eat doesn’t provide you with essential nutrients for healthy body functioning.

The primary way to avoid developing these conditions is by avoiding anything with lactose and focusing on supplementing calcium. Calcium is necessary for healthy bones. There are various alternative sources of calcium in plant-based foods which you can look into. Finding alternative food sources helps you keep your diet balanced and your body healthy.

Can you develop lactose intolerance?

Lactose intolerance is very common among adults. Many humans cease producing enough lactase to digest milk between ages 2 and 5. Unlike milk allergy, lactose intolerance isn’t a true allergy, and you can develop it at any age. Sometimes people develop lactose intolerance because of the presence of other diseases, while at times, it develops without any triggers present. Lactose intolerance has been seen as most present in those of Asian, African, Mexican, and Native American descent.

Diseases that often cause lactose intolerance injure the intestines’ cell lining, which can affect the body’s lactase production, hence lactose intolerance. Such diseases include:

Crohn’s disease.
Gastroenteritis.
Chemotherapy.
Ulcerative colitis.
Celiac disease.
Antibiotics or other medications.
Surgery.

Home lactose intolerance test

If you believe your symptoms point towards an intolerance, you can order a comprehensive Intolerance Test. This home-lab test will prevent you from going back and forth to the lab, as you can complete the test at home then send off your blood sample. Your sample will enter our laboratory for testing, and within a week, you’ll get your results. We test against 159 food and drink items, including milk, goat milk, sheep milk and soy milk. Before taking this test, however, you need to consult your doctor to see if you’re suffering from any underlying diseases, as some other conditions can cause lactose intolerance.

If your symptoms seem more similar to those of a milk allergy, then you can order your milk Allergy Test. This test will check for allergies that you may have in your body, and you’ll get back your results within a week. If you may have any other food allergies with symptoms similar to those of a milk allergy, then you will know through this test. You can, however, take an Allergy and Intolerance Test if you aren’t sure whether you’re suffering from a milk allergy or lactose intolerance. This combined test will give you the clarity you need.

Milk alternatives

You need to reduce your dairy intake to avoid lactose intolerance symptoms. You can do so by purchasing milk alternatives instead of cow’s milk, which are found in most supermarkets. These include:

Flax milk.
Soy milk.
Rice milk.
Almond milk.
Coconut-based milk.
Cashew milk.
Hazelnut milk.
Hemp milk.
Oat milk.

References

1. Goldman, A. S., Anderson Jr, D. W., Sellers, W. A., Saperstein, S., Kniker, W. T., & Halpern, S. R. (1963). Milk allergy: I. Oral challenge with milk and isolated milk proteins in allergic children. Pediatrics, 32(3), 425-443.

2.Swagerty Jr, D. L., Walling, A., & Klein, R. M. (2002). Lactose intolerance. American family physician, 65(9), 1845.

Chickpea Allergy Guide

Posted on 11th October 202218th January 2023 by Kate Young

Chickpeas, or Garbanzo beans, are dried seeds called pulses. Chickpeas belong to the legumes family and are an essential food source to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It is also a common source of protein for those following vegetarian and plant-based diets. In the UK, chickpeas are primarily consumed in hummus and falafel as core ingredients. The most commonly consumed types of legumes are lentils, chickpea, beans, and peas. The most common legume allergy is lentils, followed by chickpeas {1}.

Even though chickpeas allergy exists, it’s not as common as other allergies such as milk and eggs. Common symptoms of chickpea allergy include skin reactions and, in severe cases, anaphylactic shock. Even though an uncommon allergy, chickpea allergy can be severe and life-threatening. Within this guide, we will discuss chickpea allergy as well as intolerance, and methods of testing.

What is chickpea allergy?

As with all food allergies, chickpea allergy occurs in extreme cases when one eats or touches this legume. Upon proteins in chickpeas getting into the bloodstream, the immune system treats them like invaders. Certain proteins in chickpeas like globulin, albumin, and prolamin are retained even after cooking, and they’re the cause of allergic reactions. Once your body assumes these proteins are harmful invaders, it makes proteins called IgE antibodies. These antibodies then attach themselves to the proteins leading to the release of chemicals known as histamines. The production of histamines is what causes chickpea allergy symptoms.

Chickpea allergy symptoms

Chickpea allergy symptoms are similar to those of other food allergies. You’ll notice that symptoms appear soon after consuming chickpeas or in a few hours. The severity of chickpea allergy symptoms varies from one person to the next. While some people have mild symptoms, others have severe and intense symptoms. Common chickpea allergy symptoms include:

basic-allergy-test-front — Our Basic Allergy Test

Burning or tingling in your mouth.
Itchy mouth.
Trouble swallowing.
Nausea.
Swelling in the mouth, throat, face, or other body parts.
Throwing up.
Stomach cramps.
Shortness of breath.
Red, itchy skin without bumps.
Sneezing.
Itchy eyes.
Wheezing.
Diarrhoea.
Itchy, red, raised bumps called hives.

Sometimes it can be difficult to ascertain which food item is causing your allergy symptoms, since there can be many ingredients in food products. Because of this, taking an allergy test is beneficial to rule out different foods and get an indicator of which items your body doesn’t agree with.

Chickpea allergy cross-reactivity

When suffering from chickpea allergy, it is possible to experience allergy symptoms when eating foods processed or cooked in the same environment or facility as chickpeas. These foods can be contaminated with chickpea protein leading to cross-contamination.

Cross-reactivity also occurs when you eat foods that contain proteins similar to those in the one you’re allergic to. For example, if you have a chickpeas allergy, you can have cross-reactivity to foods like {2}:

Green peas.
Kidney beans.
Fava beans.
Fenugreek.
Black-eyed peas.
Peanuts.
Black beans.
Haricot beans.

Therefore, it’s important to be aware if you’re trying a different legume, you may experience the same symptoms.

Chickpea allergy in babies

Usually, food allergies develop within the first year of life. Because of this, you will likely notice a chickpea allergy when you begin to introduce baby food containing the food item into your child’s diet. Chickpea allergy in babies shows up within a few minutes upto two hours of consuming these legumes. Symptoms of chickpea allergy in babies may appear after inhalation during cooking, touching, or oral ingestion. If your baby is allergic to chickpeas, you’ll notice similar symptoms to the ones listed above. Common symptoms include skin redness, hives, rashes, and inflammation. In some cases, chickpea symptoms can worsen, and anaphylaxis can occur, a very severe condition that, if not treated, may be life-threatening. If your child suffers from chickpea allergy, you must have an EpiPen to carry at all times in case of an emergency.

Chickpea intolerance

Even if you don’t suffer from chickpea allergy, you may experience symptoms because of chickpea intolerance. Chickpeas intolerance arises when we lack the enzyme required to digest it. This leads to fermentation in the large intestines and gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and stomach ache. Unlike chickpea allergy, chickpea intolerance isn’t life-threatening, nor does it trigger the immune system. The symptoms can be uncomfortable and diminish your quality of life, but they won’t threaten it. You can learn more about the difference between a good allergy and food intolerance.

We do not possess the enzymes required to break down certain FODMAPS, and chickpeas are among those. Chickpeas are made up of oligosaccharides. These sugars can also be found in foods like rye, onions, and garlic. This means that chickpeas can easily pass through the mouth, stomach, and small intestines without breaking down. Upon arrival in the large intestines, they ferment, causing you a lot of discomfort.

If you have an intolerance but want to continue eating chickpeas, the best way to reduce the chances of symptoms is by soaking them overnight. This reduces the sugars in them significantly, preventing you from having gas problems. Another way to help your stomach, too, would be to supplement the enzyme that could aid in the digestion of chickpeas. Supplementation allows you to consume chickpeas and not suffer gastrointestinal issues.

When you’re suffering from certain digestive tract diseases, it is wise to avoid chickpeas as they may worsen your condition and symptoms. These conditions include:

Crohn’s disease.
Ulcerative colitis.
Diverticulitis.
Chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction.
Lactose intolerance.
Hirschsprung disease.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Irritable bowel syndrome.

Chickpea Intolerance Symptoms

The severity or mildness of chickpea intolerance symptoms varies from one individual to the next. The most common symptoms include:

Bloating.
Headaches.
Diarrhoea.
Abdominal pain.
Fatigue.
Excessive gas.

If you’re unsure which food is causing your intolerance symptoms, we recommend you order a complete intolerance test, which analyses your sample against 159 food items. Your results will indicate which items could be causing you issues, so you can begin to make lifestyle changes, starting with an elimination diet.

References

1. Martínez San Ireneo, M., Ibáñez, M. D., Sánchez, J. J., Carnés, J., & Fernández-Caldas, E. (2008). Clinical features of legume allergy in children from a Mediterranean area. Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology : official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, 101(2), 179–184. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1081-1206(10)60207-4

2. Bar-El Dadon, S., Pascual, C. Y., & Reifen, R. (2014). Food allergy and cross-reactivity-chickpea as a test case. Food chemistry, 165, 483–488. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2014.05.138

Allergy vs Intolerance

Posted on 14th April 202110th November 2022 by Kate Young

In the UK, allergies and intolerances are both a common problem – and the number of cases is increasing year on year. But if you’ve noticed uncomfortable symptoms after eating particular foods, it can be difficult to work out which condition you’re experiencing.

So, allergy vs intolerance – what’s the difference? And how can you discover what’s causing your symptoms? In this blog post, we’ll explain the difference between an allergy and intolerance and how our tests can help you take control of your diet.

What is an allergy?

If you’re suffering from an allergy, it means your body experiences an allergic reaction in response to certain substances (known as allergens). Your immune system perceives the substance as a hazard and responds by releasing proteins called IgE immunoglobins.

These proteins increase your body’s secretion of histamines – a chemical that triggers an allergic reaction. This can result in symptoms such as vomiting, hives, swelling or itching.

An allergic response often starts a few minutes after you’ve eaten an allergen. However, in rare cases, it can take a couple of hours for your symptoms to appear.

What is an intolerance?

The main difference between an allergy vs an intolerance is the fact that an intolerance isn’t an immune response. If you’re intolerant to certain foods, it means that your body finds it difficult to break them down and digest them.

In response, your system releases a different type of immunoglobin known as IgG4. This can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, usually gastric issues such as bloating, nausea or diarrhoea.

There’s also evidence that certain intolerances can induce a range of other symptoms, including headaches and fatigue. Although research is ongoing, there also seems to be the link between gluten intolerance and inflammation.

Unlike allergies, intolerances are almost never life-threatening.

How do I find out which I have?

At Lifelab Testing, we offer a range of home allergy and intolerance tests. Our range of allergy tests will look for raised levels of IgE in your blood, while our intolerance tests will identify IgG4.

If you’re not sure whether you have an allergy or an intolerance, our complete body test can diagnose 40 different allergies and 80 intolerances. This test will search for both IgE and IgG4, arming you with the information you need to make confident decisions about your diet.

Order your home test kit today!

Whether you suspect you’re suffering from an allergy or an intolerance, it’s important to get to the bottom of your problem. Order your simple home test kit from Lifelab Testing today and enjoy 100% accurate answers or your money back.

Allergy Test: Your New Year’s Resolution Secret Weapon

Posted on 8th January 202010th November 2022 by Donna Mastriani

A study found that, by the second weekend of January, most people have given up on their New Year’s resolution. The failure to see the results they’re looking for just proves too disheartening and its time to fall face-first into a large pizza. We go again next year, right?

No! 2021 is our year, and the reason is that we’re taking an allergy test.

But what’s an allergy test got to do with anything? Well, when you’re turning over a new, healthier leaf, there are specific health outcomes you’re looking to achieve. You want to look slimmer, and you want to feel fitter. What if we tell you that food intolerance or allergy is getting in the way of both of these? Read on to see why an allergy test could make this the year the resolution succeeds.

Weight Loss

Salads, soups, juices, meal replacement shakes. You’ve tried them all, but you still have that muffin top creeping over the top of your jeans. It’s disheartening, right? What’s the point in being so strict if you’re still going to have that belly. Well, what if we told you that the foods you’re eating might be masking the progress you’re making on your diet?

When you eat a food to which you’re intolerant, it is likely to cause digestive irritation which slows foods progress through your system, this means the food spends more time being broken down by enzymes leading to an increase in the gas produced during digestion. This gas then stays within the stomach, which leads to bloating. By taking an intolerance and allergy test, you can identify the foods which may be making your stomach seem artificially large.

Fitness

You’ve bought the running shoes, you’ve created your inspirational running playlist, and you’re ready to go full Mo Farah. But you’ve been running for a few weeks now, and you’re still struggling for breath five minutes in. The first temptation is to think you’re still unfit, right? It’s going to take forever to enjoy running, and you can’t be bothered to stick it out.

Have you ever stopped to consider that your tight chest, difficulty breathing and a general feeling of unfitness may be down to the symptoms of an allergy? When you have an allergic reaction, inflammation can occur, meaning the narrowing of the airways, making it hard to get enough oxygen into your lungs. By taking an allergy test, you can take the necessary steps to resolve these symptoms and get back on the running track.

We have an allergy test to suit all budgets, find yours today.

Alcohol Facts and Myths

Posted on 16th December 201910th November 2022 by Kate Young

Alcohol has many effects on the body, with various pitfalls and even a few purported benefits. Once it enters your system, it starts working on multiple organs. The heart, liver, brain are just a few. If you’re frequently drinking too much, the organs affected can begin to develop long-term health problems.

Many of us are blissfully unaware of how alcohol actually affects our bodies. So we’re going to fill you in on 13 facts (and a few myths) on this celebratory substance enjoyed in many countries around the world.

13 Alcohol Facts

Alcohol is a depressant, meaning that it slows down brain activity. However, it first behaves like a stimulant in small amounts, which is why some people become more sociable or upbeat to start with.
Alcohol triggers the release of dopamine, which is a neurotransmitter that’s associated with anticipation, pleasure and satisfaction.
Alcohol is one of the most misused substances (both legal and illegal) with roughly 1 in 8 Americans meeting the criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder.
According to a study in 2015, light-eyed Americans (of European descent) are more likely to misuse alcohol than dark-eyed Americans of European descent.
Research has indicated that rates of alcohol use and high-risk use increased between 2001 and 2013, despite the popularity increase in health.
Teens who started drinking before the age of 15 are more likely to develop a dependence on alcohol later in life.
A study that explored drinking around Italian families found that young Italians who drank at family meals while growing up were much less likely to develop unhealthy drinking habits in later life.
People who have more muscle mass and less body fat are more tolerant of alcohol, due to muscle absorbing alcohol faster than fat.
Long-term drinking is more likely to result in adverse health consequences for women than men, even if women drink less for a shorter period.
Alcohol-related deaths are the third leading cause of preventable deaths in America. Roughly 88,000 people die each year in the States from alcohol-related causes.
Alcohol consumption significantly increases the risk of dementia.
Drinking red wine (in moderation) is considered good for the heart. It contains resveratrol, a substance that helps lower cholesterol, stop blood clots and even prevent blood vessel damage.
While red wine in moderation can be beneficial, dark drinks are more likely to cause a hangover than clear beverages. Opting for vodka over whiskey might be a good idea if you don’t want to write off the following day.

That’s a lot of facts about alcohol. But there are a lot of myths surrounding the substance as well. Here are a few myths that many of us still believe;

Top 5 Myths

1. “It’s OK to get drunk every now and then.”

Drinking enough to get heavily drunk is considered binge drinking, which is associated with severe health problems such as unintentional injuries, cancer, and heart disease. Regardless of how infrequently you do it, if you have 4 to 5 (or more) drinks in a single sitting, you’re putting your health at risk.

2. “Wine or beer won’t make you as drunk as hard liquor.”

All alcoholic drinks contain ethanol, in roughly the same amounts. This is why certain drinks are sold as pints (beer, lager and cider), glasses (wine) and shots (spirits). While spirits are easier to drink in excess, due to having a smaller volume, each serving will have roughly the same effect on your body.

3. “It’s always safe in moderation.”

Moderate consumption of some alcoholic drinks can have health benefits, but this doesn’t equate it to being ‘risk-free’. There are many groups of people for whom the risks can vastly outweigh potential benefits. Such as those who;

are pregnant or trying to get pregnant
are taking prescribed anti-depressants or other psychoactive substances.
have AUD, alcohol dependence, or a family history of either
have heart failure or a weak heart
have liver or pancreatic disease
have previously had a stroke, heart failure or a weak heart.
plan to drive or operate machinery
take other prescription medications that interact with alcohol

4. “Drinking is only a problem for those who can’t hold their liquor.”

It can actually be a good sign if you can’t hold your alcohol. Those that no longer feel the effects of alcohol are probably developing a tolerance to it, which can mean they’re at higher risk of developing a dependency.

5. “You can sober up quickly with a cup of coffee.”

This may be the biggest lie surrounding alcohol – most likely due to a misunderstanding of what causes the symptoms of a hangover. The idea behind it seems sound enough though – since alcohol is a depressant, you should counteract it with a stimulant.

The symptoms of feeling drunk or hungover are mostly due to your blood alcohol levels dropping, rather than the psychoactive effects of the drink. Symptoms that aren’t caused by the drop in alcohol are just your body working through it – it’s a matter of giving yourself time to flush it out of your system.

It’s not just the Alcohol

Alcoholic drinks can have negative consequences in everyone, but some people are more affected than others. For example, those with a barely, hops or yeast intolerance will find that a single pint of beer can cause uncomfortable side-effects like bloating or intestinal discomfort. Grapes, apples, pears and citric fruits can all be sources of unusual symptoms as well, as we can even be intolerant to these fruits. If you’re wondering whether you should be avoiding beer, lager or ale due to an intolerance or allergy, consider getting tested against their main ingredients.