People with gluten allergies cannot drink malt beverages because malt contains gluten. Gluten is a protein found in various grains, such as wheat, barely and rye. It can trigger an allergic reaction that can cause symptoms that are mild to severe. If you've been diagnosed with a gluten allergy, do not consume malt beverages. A gluten allergy is not the same as gluten intolerance, or celiac disease, but both conditions require a gluten-free diet. Talk with your doctor for a clinical diagnosis of your condition.
Gluten Allergy
Gluten allergies are caused by a malfunction of your immune system. When you consume gluten, your immune system overreacts to the protein by creating immunoglobulin E antibodies, or IgE antibodies, to fight off the protein. The allergic reaction may cause a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which could lead to death. The primarily difference between a gluten allergy and celiac disease is the cause. Celiac disease is caused by a reaction that occurs in the digestive system, damaging the lining of your intestines permanently. Gluten allergy is unrelated to your digestive system and can affect various parts of your body.
Malt Beverages
Malt contains gluten. If you drink a malt beverage and you're allergic to gluten, you will develop symptoms within a few minutes. Common symptoms include sneezing, nasal congestion, sinus headaches, sinus pressure, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, bloating, cramping, skin rashes, facial swelling, difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest pain and shortness of breath. If any symptoms develop after you consume malt beverages, call your doctor.
Avoidance
If you're allergic to gluten found in malted beverages, you will need to avoid consuming all products that contain gluten. The only effective treatment for a gluten allergy is to avoid gluten. Gluten is found primarily in pasta, bread, cakes, cereals, couscous, beer, soy sauce, crackers, ketchup, processed meat, crab substitutes, coffee substitutes, hot dogs, ice cream, dairy products, modified food starch, vegetable gum and natural flavoring. Purchase foods that clearly state that they are gluten-free. Naturally gluten-free flours include corn, rice, soy and tapioca.
Testing
If you have not been clinically diagnosed with a gluten allergy, you need to make an appointment with an allergist. An allergist will inject a small amount of gluten under your skin to see if your skin becomes inflamed and irritated. A blood sample may be used to determine whether your immune system creates immunoglobulin E antibodies when it's exposed to gluten proteins.
