Stomach pain that develops from eating foods that contain carob powder may be a sign of an allergic reaction. An allergy can occur whenever you introduce a new substance into your body. Allergic reactions are commonly seen with foods, medications and herbal supplements. An adverse reaction that develops as a result of eating carob powder needs to be reported to your doctor and the Food and Drug Administration. Your doctor will determine the cause and best treatment options for your condition.
Carob Allergy
Whether you're taking carob as a dietary supplement or using it for cooking, an allergic reaction can cause mild to severe stomach pain along with other symptoms. What happens during an allergic reaction to carob powder is that your immune system mistakenly identifies the proteins in the powder as a dangerous threat to the body. The immune system immediately produces immunoglobulin E antibodies that trigger a chain reaction in the body of releasing various chemicals. The result of these chemicals is inflammation in different parts of your body, such as your digestive system.
Stomach Pain
Stomach pain from a carob powder allergy is the result of increased histamine produced in the lining of the intestines. Histamine is a naturally occurring chemical in the body that helps to protect against infection. During an allergic reaction, large amounts of histamine produced by mast cells in soft tissue causes swelling. The lining of your stomach swelling leads to further digestive complications, such as stomach pain, cramping, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and bloating.
Complications
An allergic reaction to carob powder can cause further complications throughout your body if not treated. An allergic reaction can cause skin irritation, hives, eczema nasal congestion, sinus headaches, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, trouble breathing, facial swelling, lightheadedness and a metallic taste in your mouth. In rare cases, a severe allergic reaction can cause death from anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction that can cause your throat to close-up, preventing you from breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure and a rapid heart rate. Call 911 immediately if you develop these symptoms.
Treatment
As with any allergic reaction related to digestion, avoid consuming carob powder. Carob powder is not a commonly used ingredient and mostly found in health foods products as a substitute for chocolate. Read the ingredients in all packaged foods before consuming them to ensure they are free of carob. A carob powder allergy is incurable and is only managed through a modified diet.
