Food allergies are not as prevalent as other types of allergies, such as pollen allergies, but the symptoms are just as inconvenient, if not more dangerous. Seed allergies are a type of food allergy that is most often hereditary. The most logical solution is to avoid seeds entirely if you have seed allergies. However, you must exercise extra care when eating, as traces of seeds exist in other foods, particularly those that are processed. Still, seed allergies are treatable--though not curable.
Types
According to the Food Allergy Initiative (FAI), sesame seeds are the most allergenic of any seeds. Certain foods also contain traces of sesame seed protein, including hummus, vegetable oil, tahini, halvah, benne, sim sim and gomasio. Tahini and sim sim are ethnic cooking pastes, while gomasio is a cooking salt. Halvah is a solid Middle Eastern dessert, and benne is a component in candies. Cosmetics also contain sesame seed protein. Other types of allergenic seeds include flaxseed, pumpkin seed, poppy seed, rapeseed and sunflower seed. The FAI explains, however, that allergies to these types of seeds are not common.
Symptoms
Symptoms of seed allergies vary by person, and can affect the gastrointestinal system or the skin. The European Food Information Council (EUFIC) reports that gastrointestinal symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea and colic. Seed allergies can show up on the skin in the form of swelling, itchiness and rashes like eczema. If you have a severe allergy, consumption of seeds can result in anaphylactic shock.
Treatment
The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI) recommends that you see an allergist in order to properly diagnose and treat a suspected food allergy. Skin tests are performed to identify sensitivity to particular allergens. Antihistamines are prescribed, and perhaps allergy shots for more serious cases. An allergy to a certain type of food makes you more prone to developing other food allergies within the same type. For instance, an allergy to sesame seeds may increase your risk of developing an allergy to sunflower seeds.
Prevention
The most effective form of treatment in seed allergies is to avoid seeds. Read food ingredients thoroughly and take care when eating out in restaurants. Use caution when eating Asian and Middle Eastern foods as they often contain traces of sesame seeds. The FAI explains that even if sesame seeds are omitted from a particular dish, traces of them may still be present.
Considerations
Some countries, such as Canada, require food manufacturers to list seed ingredients on their labels so that consumers can easily see them. However, according to the FAI, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not require such labeling. This may be due to the fact that seed allergies are not as prevalent in the United States as they are in other countries. If you suffer from seed allergies, you must take extra precautions when shopping for foods.
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