Bananas are a common fruit in many households and a staple for babies getting their first taste of solid food. Believed to have originated in Malaysia 4,000 years ago, bananas are known for their high potassium content and nutritional contribution to lowering blood pressure, easing ulcer pain and strengthening bones. The idea that someone could be allergic to this ubiquitous fruit is surprising to some. While rare, banana allergies do exist.
Causes
Most food allergies are triggered by an adverse reaction to proteins. In bananas, the protein chitinase is the culprit. Kiwis, chestnuts and avocados are other foods with the same offending protein. Green bananas may be exposed to a ripening gas known to increase the production of chitinase. A Finnish study at Helsinki University Central Hospital showed a correlation between banana and latex allergies. Latex is derived from tree sap containing chitinase. A different banana allergy is caused by a reaction to birch pollen.
Symptoms
In the protein-triggered allergy, cramping and vomiting are common. Itchiness of the mouth or throat accompanies the pollen-related allergy. Watering eyes, headaches, congestion and a pins-and-needles feeling in the lips or tongue are associated with both types. The severity of the symptoms varies. In extreme cases, a banana allergy can cause swelling of the mouth, tongue and throat. Known as anaphylaxis, this reaction can hinder breathing and may be fatal if not treated promptly.
Intolerance
Intolerance of bananas often is mistaken for an allergy. If you lack the enzyme needed to break down amine molecules found in bananas, you may experience allergy symptoms; you are more likely, however, to have issues only with your digestive system, such as abdominal pain or cramps. Eating small quantities of banana with no problems is indicative of intolerance. Since cooking eliminates the ripening agents that increase chitinase, you are likely just intolerant if cooked foods featuring bananas don't affect you.
Treatment
Antihistamines are commonly prescribed to treat allergic reactions to bananas. For someone experiencing an anaphylactic episode, an adrenalin shot is required. The best way to handle a banana allergy, however, is through prevention. Avoiding bananas and banana-flavored foods is the most effective way to prevent an allergic reaction. Try cooking with bananas -- banana bread, for instance -- to see if you can handle the fruit when most of the offending proteins have been destroyed.
References
- Health and Nutrition Tips: Banana Allergy
- Healthaholicz; Banana Allergy Symptoms and Cures; July 2011
- National Institutes of Health; Banana Allergy in Patients with Immediate-Type Hypersensitivity to Natural Rubber Latex; S. Makinen-Kiljunen; June 1994
- Types of Allergies: Banana Allergy Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
- The Health Guide: What is a Banana Allergy?
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