Peanuts Allergy

Definition of Allergy:

It is an immune system reaction in individuals with allergies toward certain substances (such as pollen, dust mites, fungi, certain foods, and others) which normally do not affect healthy people. The immune system’s natural role is to fight harmful substances that enter the body. However, in the case of allergies, it reacts to harmless substances as if they were dangerous (a false alarm) by producing antibodies (such as histamine), which cause allergy symptoms. A person may often be allergic to more than one substance.

Definition of Food Allergy:

It is an exaggerated immune system response to certain foods or one of their components. Symptoms range from mild to severe, with the most serious form being “anaphylaxis.”

Definition of Anaphylaxis (Severe Hypersensitivity):

A severe and life-threatening allergic reaction that can obstruct breathing, cause a significant drop in blood pressure, and affect heart rate. It can occur within minutes of exposure to an allergen. The most common triggers are nuts and peanuts.

Nut Allergy:

Nuts are among the most common allergy triggers often associated with anaphylaxis.

Foods allowed for people with nut allergy:

Many patients wonder whether they can consume coconut and nutmeg:

• Coconut: While it may cause allergies in some individuals, most people with nut allergies can safely consume it. However, consultation with a physician is advised.
• Nutmeg seeds: Nutmeg is a spice derived from the seeds of the nutmeg fruit, not a type of nut. It is generally safe for people with nut allergies.

Peanuts:

Peanuts are not tree nuts (like almonds, cashews, etc.) but rather grow underground, which places them in a different food group—legumes (such as beans, peas, and lentils).

Nutritional Importance of Peanuts:

• Rich in protein and fiber: Helps induce satiety quickly, aiding in weight management.
• Contains many vitamins and minerals.
• Disease control: Studies show that consuming peanuts five times a week reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, gallstones, and colorectal cancer.
• Included in the DASH diet: Which helps lower blood pressure.
• Anti-aging properties.

• Peanut Allergy:

• Eating peanuts can trigger severe allergic reactions in some individuals.
• Having a peanut allergy does not necessarily increase the likelihood of being allergic to other legumes.
• Peanut allergy can occur unexpectedly, and even very small amounts of peanuts may trigger symptoms.

Foods that may contain peanuts:

Peanuts can be present in foods such as cakes, cookies, pastries, sweets, ice cream, plant-based products, salads, dressings, and more.

Foods to be cautious of for people with peanut allergy:

Legumes: Some studies indicate that a small number of people with peanut allergy may also react to other legumes. Caution should be taken when consuming legumes, and a doctor should be consulted.

Lupin beans: As a type of legume, individuals with peanut allergy should exercise caution. Although studies are insufficient, lupin and foods containing it should be avoided.

Sesame seeds: Research has shown that children with peanut allergy may also be allergic to sesame.

Allergy Symptoms:

• Facial swelling
• Numbness in the mouth
• Fatigue
• Abdominal issues: pain, cramps, nausea, and vomiting
• Difficulty swallowing
• Skin rash
• Fatigue
• Difficulty breathing
• Anaphylaxis

Symptoms may vary from person to person and from one episode to another in the same person.

Causes of Allergy:

The exact cause of why some individuals develop allergies to certain substances is unknown. However, risk factors increase the likelihood of developing them.

Risk Factors:

• Age: Food allergies commonly appear in early childhood (up to around 3 years).
• Previous peanut allergy: Some may recover but can relapse later.
• Allergy to another type of food.
• Other allergies: Such as eczema, hay fever, or asthma.
• Family history of allergies.

Diagnosis:

If peanut or nut allergy is suspected, medical evaluation and tests are required, including:

• Personal and family history of allergic reactions.
• Laboratory tests: blood tests and/or skin prick tests.

Treatment:

Allergies are chronic conditions that cannot be cured once developed. However, some studies indicate that a small percentage of children may outgrow them.

If peanut or nut allergy is confirmed, a physician will prescribe an epinephrine injection (adrenaline) to be used in emergencies (upon symptoms of anaphylaxis).

General Guidelines for People with Food Allergies:

• All individuals with nut or peanut allergies must take their condition seriously.
• Avoid nuts and nut-based products.
• Always carry a card listing all nut-related terms and other allergens.
• Carefully read the nutrition facts label.
• Carry medications at all times.
• Learn how to use an epinephrine auto-injector for emergencies.
• Teachers and caregivers of allergic children must also learn how to use epinephrine.
• Maintain control of asthma.
• Dining out

Patients should follow these precautions:

• Ask about the presence of allergens (nuts or others) in meals served.
• Do not hesitate to ask the waiter to check with the chef regarding ingredients or cross-contamination during storage or preparation.
• Be cautious with dips and salad dressings that may contain nuts or nut oils.
• Roasting or heating nuts does not reduce their allergenicity.
• Be cautious when sharing utensils with others, as nut residue may remain.
• Be cautious with heavily spiced foods, as many spices may contain hidden nuts or peanuts.

FAQs:

Is peanut oil safe?

• Refined peanut oil: There is no clear evidence that it causes severe reactions in allergic individuals.
• Unrefined (raw) peanut oil: More likely to cause allergic symptoms.
• Peanut oil used for frying: May be unrefined and is advised to be avoided.