Banana allergy: Symptoms and foods to avoid

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Banana allergy is an allergy to certain proteins found in bananas. Allergic reactions to bananas can range from mild to life-threatening. Any child or adult with symptoms of a banana allergy should have a medical examination to assess risk factors for anaphylaxis and potential allergies to other substances. The article provides information you need to know about banana allergy symptoms and measures to avoid.
Banana is a quite popular fruit across the globe. They're a healthy snack, a great breakfast choice, and they're delicious when made into smoothies. Most people think of bananas as one of the first solid foods they can give their babies. However, some people may want to avoid exposure to bananas for allergy reasons. Banana allergy is often related to latex allergy. This is because some of the proteins in the rubber latex are thought to be allergenic and they are similar to the proteins found in some nuts, fruits and including bananas. This syndrome will be called latex food syndrome or latex allergy.
Banana allergy is relatively uncommon and does not rank among the most common allergies. In most regions of the world, usually less than 1 percent of the population has a banana allergy. However, people who are allergic to substances containing proteins similar to those found in bananas are at a higher risk.
Very rarely a baby has a strong allergic reaction to bananas. However, be cautious if there is a family history of food allergies. Although bananas don't top the list of top food allergens, food allergies are the most common cause of anaphylaxis in children. Children who are allergic to nuts may have a reaction when they eat or touch raw bananas. Young children are more prone to food allergies, so discuss tolerability testing with your doctor before giving your child any unfamiliar foods they've never tried before.

1. Symptoms and Complications of Banana Allergy

1.1. Symptoms The first signs of an allergic reaction can appear very soon after eating or tasting a banana, depending on the severity of the person's allergy. Some people also have skin-to-skin reactions to bananas, even banana peels. Here are the typical symptoms to look out for:
Itching or swelling of lips, tongue and throat Swollen, itchy or red eyes Runny nose or sneezing Shortness of breath Often abdominal pain, vomiting or diarrhea 1.2. Complications In some severe cases, people with a banana latex allergy can experience anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening. The symptoms of anaphylaxis are very serious and require immediate attention and management. These include:
Rash and itching Red skin Swelling of tongue Blocking of airways, causing wheezing or difficulty breathing Swollen throat and hoarse voice Low blood pressure (anaphylaxis) Abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea Dizziness face or fainting If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

2. Causes and risk factors for banana allergy

Banana allergy can appear as a consequence of latex allergy. Very few people are born allergic to latex, but they can develop it later on from exposure. This risk is increased in some people, including:
Children with spina bifida or other birth defects who have had multiple surgeries using medical equipment containing rubber People who work in areas frequently use latex gloves or other rubber items People working in the rubber industry The most common signs of a latex allergy include itching, redness and swelling of the lumps set. People can also react to the powder used in latex gloves even if you are not in direct contact.
Banana trees and rubber trees have similar allergenic proteins, so people who are allergic to latex may also react to bananas. They can also react with other foods that contain similar allergenic ingredients. This is called cross-reactivity.
If you notice signs of a latex allergy, eliminate bananas from your diet. Same goes for avocados, kiwis and chestnuts. These foods can cause reactions in people with latex allergies.
People who are allergic to pollen can often also react to certain foods. Usually this type of reaction is developed in older children, adolescents and adults. Pollen allergies are less common in babies and toddlers.
People who are allergic to bananas are susceptible to allergies to other substances as well as bananas. There are two reasons for this. First, allergies are a sign of the immune system overreacting and may also react to other seemingly innocuous substances. Second, the protein found in bananas is similar to the protein in some other natural substances, especially latex, which is used in things like sanitary gloves, balloons and condoms.

3. Banana allergy treatment and prevention

3.1. Treatment If the allergy is only mild, over-the-counter antihistamines may be enough to combat immediate allergy symptoms such as itching, watery eyes, nose, and hives. Often these symptoms go away without any treatment.
Some people may experience anaphylaxis after eating bananas. If your allergy is this severe, your doctor will prescribe an epinephrine pump (EpiPen) to keep with you at all times.
If you suspect that your child is reacting to bananas, see your doctor for advice on how to prevent allergies.
3.2. Preventing Banana Allergy What to Avoid If You Have a Banana Allergies If you have a banana allergy, follow these tips to stay safe and healthy :
Avoid anything with bananas, including flavored products such as food, medicine, or lip balm. Always check the ingredients of smoothies and healthy desserts because bananas are often used in these dishes. Avoid other cross-reactive foods, such as: Avocados, chestnuts, kiwi, apples, carrots, celery, papaya, potatoes, tomatoes, and melons. If you are sensitive to bananas and latex, avoid contact with latex objects, including balloons, exercise equipment, gloves, condoms, and dental patches. Avoid certain rubber toys, including pacifiers, as they can also contain latex.

Alternatives for people with banana allergies Processed bananas can inactivate allergenic proteins, which could make them safe for human consumption. However, you should discuss with your doctor whether it is safe to eat bananas. If your allergy is severe, it's best to avoid bananas altogether. Safe alternatives include:
Berries Citrus fruits Pumpkins and squash, which can be baked or used in desserts and smoothies Cooked sweet potatoes and sweet potatoes If you have multiple allergies Food, the doctor will conduct a comprehensive test to determine your allergy status and list the foods that can be used in the daily diet.

4. Banana allergy in babies

Symptoms of a banana allergy in infants are similar to those for any other adult.
Mothers should always exercise caution when introducing new foods to infants, especially with common allergens such as peanuts. If a child has eczema or other allergies, the risk of a serious allergic reaction to another food or substance is greater. However, that does not mean completely preventing children from being exposed to these foods. We should still introduce babies to common food allergens, including peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and eggs, when they're 5 to 7 months old. Delaying the introduction of these foods increases the risk of food allergies. Parents and guardians should monitor infants and young children for signs of an allergic syndrome known as food protein-induced inflammatory bowel syndrome (FPIES).
Children with food grade protein enteritis develop severe gastrointestinal symptoms, including vomiting and diarrhea 2 to 3 hours after ingesting the allergen. Allergy blood tests are not capable of diagnosing the condition. Many infants and children with FPIES initially show signs of an allergy to breast milk or formula. FPIES then often cause allergies to many foods when they are first eaten, although dairy and soy are the most common causes.

Children with this disorder often need to eat a restricted diet, and food protein enterocolitis, if left untreated, can cause severe malnutrition and dehydration.
People who are allergic to latex should generally avoid eating bananas and stay away from any objects made from rubber. Also, read the label carefully or ask about the ingredient list before eating anything. Even avoid touching bananas, including the peel, and skip dessert if you're unsure of your reaction to processed bananas. People with a banana allergy are often quite sensitive to other foods. See your doctor for information on your allergy to learn what to avoid and then use a variety of delicious and safe alternatives.
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Reference sources: healthline.com, medicalnewstoday.com