From the Guidelines
The common food triggers for oral allergy syndrome include raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts that contain proteins similar to those found in pollen, such as apples, cherries, and hazelnuts for people allergic to birch pollen, as supported by studies on food-induced allergic reactions 1. When considering the management of oral allergy syndrome, it's essential to understand that the immune system mistakes food proteins for pollen proteins due to their similar structure, leading to cross-reactions.
- The most common food triggers for oral allergy syndrome are:
- Raw fruits like apples, cherries, peaches, plums, pears, and kiwi
- Raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and cucumbers
- Nuts like hazelnuts and peanuts These foods can cause symptoms like itching, tingling, or swelling in the mouth when consumed raw, especially during the corresponding pollen allergy season.
- Cooking these foods often breaks down the allergenic proteins, making them less likely to cause symptoms, as noted in guidelines for the diagnosis and management of food allergy in the United States 1. Given the potential for severe reactions, it is crucial to identify and avoid common food triggers for oral allergy syndrome to prevent progression to life-threatening reactions, as emphasized in the guidelines for the diagnosis and management of food allergy 1.
From the Research
Common Food Triggers for Oral Allergy Syndrome
The common food triggers for oral allergy syndrome (OAS) are not explicitly listed in the provided studies. However, the studies suggest that OAS is often associated with certain plant-based foods, including:
- Fruits and vegetables, such as those consumed in smoothies and juices 2
- Soy and nut milks 2
- Nutritional supplements containing plant foods 2
Pollen-Food Associations
Some studies mention the concept of pollen-food associations, where certain foods are more likely to trigger OAS in individuals with specific pollen allergies 3, 4, 5. However, the specific foods and pollens involved in these associations are not clearly defined in the provided studies.
Diagnostic and Treatment Considerations
The diagnosis and treatment of OAS are complex and may involve various considerations, including: