Lesser Known Facts about Allergies: Beyond Common Knowledge

Understanding allergies goes beyond the commonly known facts.

The Impact on Mental Health

While many people are aware of the physical symptoms of allergic reactions, there is a lesser-known aspect to allergies that significantly impacts mental health. Exposure to allergens can increase cortisol levels, a hormone responsible for the stress response. This environmental stress can lead to increased anxiety, especially when one is constantly on guard against potential allergens.

Hidden Allergens: Sesame and More

Allergies come in many forms, and sometimes the culprits are not as widely recognized. Take, for example, sesame seeds. Despite being a very common allergen, many people are not aware that it needs to be specifically labeled in products. This has led to advocacy efforts, such as those from FARE, which work to get sesame included as the 9th most common allergen by the FDA, thus requiring clear labeling. Currently, U.S. laws do not require sesame to be disclosed if it is in a product’s natural flavorings or spices, which can lead to hidden reactions and confusion in the allergy community.

Another lesser-known allergen is mustard seeds. Due to its inclusion in spices and natural flavorings, mustard seeds are often overlooked. This hidden allergen can be found in a wide range of products, including BBQ sauce, BBQ chips, and inexpensive wasabi in most sushi restaurants. Garlic is yet another common allergen that is omnipresent in many dishes, making it a significant challenge for those who are allergic to it.

The Evolution of Allergies and Food Trends

With the increasing popularity of exotic ingredients and superfoods, new allergens have emerged. For instance, shellfish allergies are common but the rise in cricket flour products has introduced a new level of vigilance for allergic individuals. Cricket flour, while not a common allergen, can be cross-reactive with shrimp, leading to unexpected reactions. Lupine, a bean used more frequently in Europe and gluten-free foods, is also more cross-reactive with peanut allergies than many other beans.

Staying informed about these new food trends is crucial for allergy sufferers to know what to watch out for. And as the food industry continues to innovate, the list of hidden allergens can change rapidly, meaning vigilance is always necessary.

Conclusion

While allergies are a prevalent issue, the complexity of managing them goes beyond just identifying the common culprits. Hidden allergens, such as sesame seeds and mustard seeds, must be recognized and labeled properly. The rise of new foods and ingredients has introduced additional challenges, requiring continued awareness and vigilance from both allergy sufferers and society as a whole. Stay informed and stay safe.