Sudden Death: What it is, Causes and Risk Factors
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Food allergies are an increasingly prevalent issue worldwide, affecting a significant portion of the population. They occur when the immune system overreacts to certain proteins found in food, leading to a range of symptoms from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening reactions.
Eggs, a staple in many diets, contain proteins that can trigger allergic reactions. Key among these proteins are ovomucoid, ovalbumin, and ovotransferrin. Notably, the latter two are sensitive to heat and denature upon cooking, thereby losing their allergenic potential. An understanding of which protein triggers one's allergic reaction is crucial in determining an appropriate exclusion diet.
This allergy is prevalent in children, with a significant percentage outgrowing it by their teenage years.
Milk allergy, primarily caused by proteins in cow's milk, is a leading cause of food allergy, predominantly affecting children. This allergy can induce severe reactions, even through mere inhalation of powdered milk particles.
Peanut allergy, once primarily a concern in certain regions, has now become a significant global issue, particularly among children. Interestingly, a significant proportion of individuals allergic to peanuts also exhibit adverse reactions to tree nuts, despite these being entirely different products.
Fish products are a common source of food allergies, particularly in regions with high seafood consumption. Similar to milk allergy, individuals working in close contact with fish products, like fishmeal, are at a higher risk of developing this allergy.
Shellfish allergies, although relatively rare, can trigger reactions in individuals sensitive to certain species.
Wheat flour, while a staple in many diets, only occasionally triggers allergic reactions. It's important to distinguish wheat allergy from celiac disease - an autoimmune condition that also involves the immune system but is a distinct entity.
Soy is another common allergen, often affecting children allergic to cow's milk, as soy milk is frequently used as a hypoallergenic alternative.
While the majority of food allergies are triggered by commonly known foods such as peanuts, shellfish, and dairy, there are several other less recognized allergens that can cause similar adverse reactions. These include a variety of fruits and vegetables such as bananas, avocados, chestnuts, melons, kiwis, strawberries, and celery. The allergic reactions to these foods are often due to a phenomenon known as cross-reactivity. Cross-reactivity occurs when proteins in these foods share similar structures to those found in other allergens, leading the immune system to mistakenly recognize them as harmful, triggering an allergic reaction.
This cross-reactivity is largely attributed to the presence of specific antigens, which are substances that the immune system recognizes as foreign. These antigens contain proteins with similar amino acid sequences to those found in other allergenic foods, which can confuse the immune system and lead to an allergic response.
In addition to these fruits and vegetables, some seeds, notably sesame and mustard seeds, are also recognized as potential allergens. These seeds contain proteins that can elicit an immune response in sensitive individuals, leading to symptoms that range from mild to potentially life-threatening.
Food additives can provoke allergic reactions or intolerances in sensitive individuals. Among these, salicylates are naturally occurring substances found in various foods, including dried fruits, berries, oranges, and grapes. They are known to cause chronic urticaria, a type of hives that lasts for more than six weeks.
Another common additive is tartrazine, a synthetic dye used to impart a bright lemon-yellow color to foods. It has been linked to triggering hives and asthma attacks in susceptible people. This colorant is often found in candies, soft drinks, and baked goods.
Sulfur dioxide is another additive, primarily used in the treatment of grapes and musts. It is also prevalent in a wide range of foods, including dried fruits and processed foods, where it acts as a preservative. Exposure to sulfur dioxide can trigger severe allergic reactions, especially in individuals with asthma.
Additionally, sulphites, metasulphites, and bisulphites are used extensively as preservatives or antioxidants in various pre-packaged products. These compounds pose a significant risk, particularly to individuals with asthma, as they can exacerbate respiratory symptoms.
Lastly, carmine red—also known as cochineal extract or E120—is a natural dye derived from cochineal insects. It is widely used not only in foods but also in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Carmine is recognized for its potential as an allergen, capable of causing severe allergic reactions in some people.
In conclusion, food allergies can significantly impact the quality of life and require careful management. Understanding the most common food allergens and potential triggers is a crucial step towards managing food allergies effectively. It's important to consult with healthcare professionals for proper diagnosis and treatment strategies, as well as for advice on maintaining a balanced diet while avoiding allergenic foods.