Carob is a seed commonly used as a substitute for chocolate. People who are allergic to chocolate are advised to use carob as an alternative, but if you develop adverse reactions after eating carob, you may be allergic to the carob seed. Carob is not a common food allergen, but could cause an allergic reaction in some people. If you're eating a food product made with carob, it may contain other common food allergens that could potentially trigger allergy symptoms. You allergist can provide you with a clinical diagnosis.
Carob Allergy
If you're allergic to carob, when you eat carob in any form, your body makes a mistake and identifies the proteins in carob as a harmful substance. When this happens, your body immediately begins to produce immunoglobulin E antibodies. Once these antibodies enter the bloodstream, mast cells respond by producing histamine. Histamine is a chemical the body produces to protect itself against infections, but can lead to inflammation. Most carob allergy symptoms are related to the production of histamine in soft tissue in different parts of your body.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a carob allergy are similar to other common food allergy symptoms. Within the first hour of consuming carob, your body may develop skin rashes, respiratory complications, digestive issues and cardiovascular reactions. Your skin can become inflamed and red in different areas, producing hives or eczema. Nausea, bloating, gas, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain are common digestive issues that can develop from a carob allergy. The respiratory system may respond with difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, sinus congestion and chest tightness. You may become lightheaded and dizzy because of cardiovascular complications.
Ingredients Considerations
Carob products are commonly made with highly allergenic ingredients, such as milk, nuts, peanuts, wheat and soy. Read the ingredients of every carob product. The government requires that the labels of foods that are made with highly allergenic foods disclose the use of these ingredients on the label of the product. If you're eating out, inform your server of your allergy to carob to prevent an allergic reaction.
Treatment
The most effective way to treat a carob allergy is to avoid consuming any food or beverage that contains carob. Make an appointment with an allergist for a diagnosis. Don't attempt to self-diagnose your condition based on symptoms. If you accidentally ingest carob, you may find relief from taking an antihistamine.
