Posted on July 18, 2009 in Latest News
Citrus allergy is caused when fruits such as oranges, lemon, grapefruit and clementines are eaten. Citrus allergy is marked by swelling and itching of the lips, hives, nausea and vomiting. However, most people confuse citrus allergy with citric acid intolerance. Citrus allergy is caused due to proteins present in the citrus fruit, while citrus acid intolerance is caused when you are unable to digest the citric acid.
How Is Citrus Allergy Caused?
Citrus allergy is caused when the immune system mistakenly considers the proteins present in the citrus fruit as harmful. In the process of attacking the proteins, it releases histamine – which results in the allergic reaction.
Citrus allergy can result in symptoms such as hives, water eyes, itching of mouth and lips, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, breathlessness. In rare cases, an allergy can lead to life thretening reaction known as anaphylaxis. To prevent anaphylaxis, an epinephrine should be administered immediately
What is Citric Acid Intolerance?
Citric acid is present in many fruits and vegetables. It is also used as a preservative in many products. Lemon, grapefruits have high amount of citric acid.
A citric acid intolerance is caused when your body is unable to digest the citric acid. Rashes, eczema, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation are some of the symptoms of citric acid intolerance.
Distinguishing Allergy and Intolerance:
An allergy can occur immediately after eating the food, while an intolerance can take time to show the symptoms. Only a small quantity of citrus is needed to trigger an allergy, but intolerance is based on the amount of food eaten.
Getting yourself tested with an allergist can help you to determine citrus allergy.
Tips to Prevent Citrus Allergy/Intolerance:
Avoidance of citrus fruit is the only way to avoid citrus allergy. Here are a few tips to avoid citrus allergy:
- Read the labels while shopping
- While eating out, enquire about the ingredients
- Beware of cross-contaimination. Fruit cocktails can have citrus mixed in it
- Always carry an epinephrine to prevent anaphylaxis
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