Quinoa Allergy
Quinoa is a grain-like food that belongs to the fruit family. It resembles grains in appearance and taste. Quinoa is often called a superfood because it is rich in protein. Quinoa is a food source that is low in sodium and rich in calcium, fiber, potassium and iron. With these features, quinoa has become a part of diet lists. Quinoa, which is a gluten-free food, can also be preferred by celiac patients and people with wheat allergies. However, some people may experience some discomfort after eating quinoa and may develop an allergic reaction to quinoa. Quinoa allergy can develop in people of all ages and genders. Among the causes of quinoa allergy is a reaction to saponin.
Saponin Allergy
The outer layer of quinoa contains chemicals called "saponins". Some people may develop an allergic reaction to this substance. Saponin is a bitter substance that protects the quinoa plant from fungal and insect attacks. Saponin contains toxic substances that can cause irritation and other problems in some people. People who are allergic to saponin can consume quinoa after washing it thoroughly. However, people who are allergic to quinoa should still consult their doctor before consuming quinoa.
Quinoa Allergy
Symptoms In quinoa allergy, symptoms usually appear shortly after eating quinoa. The severity of these symptoms may vary from person to person.
Mild symptoms of quinoa allergy include:
- Cough,
- difficulty swallowing,
- Feeling of tension in the throat,
- stomach cramps,
- swelling of the tongue,
- Vomiting,
- Wheezing,
- Eczema,
- Hives,
- Itching.
Severe symptoms of quinoa allergy include:
- difficulty breathing,
- sudden drop in blood pressure,
- Fast heartbeat.
These symptoms may cause an allergic shock called anaphylaxis and require immediate medical attention.
Quinoa Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment
If you experience or suspect symptoms of quinoa allergy, you should see an allergist. Your allergist will determine whether you have a quinoa allergy by using tests and methods. Once the cause of quinoa allergy is found and diagnosed, the treatment phase will begin. The most effective thing you need to do in the treatment of quinoa allergy is to stay away from quinoa. Removing quinoa from your diet will minimize the risk of allergic reactions. Your doctor will recommend foods such as buckwheat, millet and barley that you can consume instead of quinoa. There are also foods that should be avoided in case of quinoa allergy. Some foods may cause cross-reactivity with quinoa. Quinoa is in the same family as spinach, beets and chard. For this reason, if you are allergic to quinoa, you may develop an allergic reaction to these foods. If you are allergic to quinoa seeds, you will need to avoid quinoa and all foods made from quinoa. In order to stay away from foods containing quinoa, you need to control the ingredients of the meals you eat out. When buying a packaged food, it will be beneficial for you to read the label carefully and in detail. If you are allergic to saponin, there may be more foods you should avoid. Foods such as peanuts, kidney beans, chickpeas and soybeans also contain saponin. Your allergist will give you detailed information about whether you should stay away from these foods. You can easily manage your quinoa allergy by taking it under control with the allergy management plan you will create with your allergist.
