Allergy to fruit and vegetables is considered uncommon unlike with other food allergies such as egg, cow’s milk and nuts. On the other hand, some individuals are highly sensitive to the proteins present in certain fruits and vegetables.
The proteins in certain fruits and vegetables are erroneously identified as a threat by the immune system. As a result, it triggers the release of antibodies that are responsible for releasing chemicals that are responsible for triggering the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
The symptoms typically manifest within minutes of exposure but can take up to 1-2 hours. The common groups of fruits and vegetables that can trigger reactions among highly sensitive individuals include the following:
- Cucurbitaceae family (melon, cucumber, zucchini, watermelon, pumpkin)
- Rosacea family (pear, apple, peach, cherry, plum)
- Kiwi fruit has been a common cause of allergic reactions and can result to severe reactions than other fruits. Some individuals who are allergic to kiwi fruit are also sensitive to avocado, banana and latex due to cross-reactivity.
Take note that fruit allergies are due to proteins called profilins that are often present in grass, tree and weed pollen as well as in various fruits and vegetables.
Allergy to fruit and vegetables is generally common among older children and young adults. Even though there is limited studies on this type of allergy, individuals with allergy to fruit and vegetables are still sensitive as they grow older.
Legumes
Legumes include soybean, peanut, fresh or dried bean seeds, green beans, pea and lentils. Individuals who are allergic to one legume are not allergic to other types of legume. Only a small percentage of individuals are allergic to another type.
Legumes are derived from plants and oftentimes, an individual with legume allergy can also have sensitivity to some fruits and vegetables. Nevertheless, many individuals with sensitivity to legume can eat all types of fruits and vegetables.
What is oral allergy syndrome?
Oral allergy syndrome typically occurs where some highly sensitive individuals develop symptoms similar to hay fever in the mouth after exposure to a particular food. The symptoms include tingling sensation, itchiness as well as swelling of the lips, palate and tongue which occur within minutes after eating a particular fruit or vegetable.
Take note that the symptoms are more likely to manifest after being exposed to fresh food instead of those that were properly cooked. Remember that it is very rare for an individual to end up with generalized symptoms.
The allergic reactions due to oral allergy syndrome can occur at any time of the year but often worse during the pollen season. It is important to note that these individuals are often allergic to a variety of foods. The syndrome typically occurs in older children and adults and generally lasts for a life-time.