Whole grains are a recommended food for a well-balanced diet, but if you develop an allergic reaction from eating certain grains, you may need to eliminate them from your diet. Whole grains refer to consuming a grain in its natural state without any refinement. The most common whole grain that causes an allergic reaction is whole wheat. Wheat allergies are one of the most common food allergies and can cause a wide range of symptoms.
Whole Grain Allergies
While whole wheat may be the most common food allergy you can develop an allergic reaction to any food. Other common whole grains that are commonly used in foods include barely, rye, oats, flax and millet. An allergic reaction to whole grains occurs when the immune system makes the mistake of reacting to proteins found in the grain as if they were harmful. The overreaction of the immune system causes the body to attack the whole grain proteins with immunoglobulin E antibodies, according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. In order to determine which grains are triggering an allergic reaction in your body, you will need to undergo allergy tests.
Symptoms
Symptoms of an allergic reaction to whole grains may affect almost every system in your body. Symptoms that develop from your respiratory system include a stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing, shortness of breath, trouble breathing, wheezing, coughing and chest tightness. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain and cramping are symptoms associated with the digestive system. Your skin may develop bumps, turn red and become inflamed with rashes, such as hives or eczema. The cardiovascular system may respond with an increased heart rate, a drop in blood pressure, lightheadedness and dizziness.
Whole Grain Allergy Testing
Your allergist will use the most common proteins found in whole grains to perform allergy tests. Allergy tests are used to determine and identify which proteins your body overreacts to. Preliminary tests may include a skin prick test and an elimination diet to help the doctor identify which proteins cause adverse reactions in the body when introduced, according to MedlinePlus. A blood test is used to clinically diagnose which whole grains are causing the allergic reaction. A sample of your blood can be used to identify which proteins cause immune system cells in the blood to create immunoglobulin E antibodies.
Warning
In rare instances, a food allergy can cause a severe allergic reaction that can lead to death, if not treated. Anaphylaxis is an extreme allergic reaction that causes the body to enter a state of shock and requires emergency medical attention.
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