Everyone’s body is different – what affects one person’s body may not affect another’s. But what about broccoli? Can something as healthy and nutritious as broccoli suddenly cause an allergic reaction? To understand this, it’s important to understand what allergies are and how they occur.
An allergy is caused by a hypersensitivity reaction of the immune system when it comes into contact with foreign substances, also known as allergens. Some of the most common allergens are pollen, pet dander, dust mites, mold and foods such as nuts, shellfish, eggs and dairy. When an allergic response is triggered, after a person ingests, touches or otherwise interacts with an allergen, their body releases histamines that cause a range of symptoms, such as sneezing, coughing, itching, and hives.
The good news is that broccoli is not a common allergen. Although there is some evidence of broccoli associated allergies, the incidence is very low. In fact, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, only about 0.2% of adults in the United States have been reported to experience an allergic reaction to broccoli. These reactions tend to be mild, such as itching, rash and hives, though very rare severe reactions, such as anaphylaxis, have been reported.
For some people, what appears to be an allergic reaction to broccoli may in fact be an intolerance. People who have an intolerance to broccoli may experience bloating, vomiting, abdominal cramping and other digestive issues, but are not at risk of experiencing anaphylaxis. As with an allergy, having an intolerance to broccoli means that required dietary adjustments may need to be made.
For those who think they have an allergy to broccoli, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional. Health care professionals can diagnose allergies and can recommend appropriate treatments, such as medications or dietary changes. To receive an accurate diagnosis, you’ll likely be asked to provide a detailed history of your symptoms and exposures to potential allergens. You may also be asked to undergo blood and skin testing to determine if your body has antibodies to any possible allergen, and an elimination test may be performed, during which broccoli is eliminated from your diet for a period of time and the symptoms are monitored.
Skin Prick and Patch Testing
Skin prick and patch tests may be used to diagnose food allergies, including broccoli allergies. During a skin prick test, a drop of a suspected allergen will be placed on the skin and pricked with a needle. The test should be done while the patient is wearing a cotton shirt to avoid possible reactions and distress. If the patient experiences any reactions at the site, it is likely that an allergic reaction has occurred, although this is not definitive.
Patch testing is very similar to skin prick testing and works in a similar way. However, it is more painful and can cause a delayed reaction, which can show itself several days after the test has been done. Patch testing can help to identify sensitivities to food allergies, but it is not always conclusive. If the patient experiences a reaction, they should consult their doctor for further testing.
Dietary Considerations
For those who have been diagnosed with a broccoli allergy, the best way to avoid a reaction is to eliminate broccoli and other related foods from your diet. This doesn’t mean you are to cut out all broccoli – in fact, most people can safely eat some broccoli if they cook it properly, such as steaming or microwaving it. If you do choose to cook it, make sure to use a separate cooking utensil and plate from other dishes containing broccoli.
It’s also important to be aware of certain foods that commonly contain broccoli, such as salads, stir-fry dishes, soup, and casseroles. Reading food labels and speaking to your doctor or nutritionist can help in avoiding hidden sources of broccoli. Many products that contain broccoli may be labeled as “vegetable blend” or “vegetable medley”.
Other Allergens
Although broccoli is not a common allergen, it is important to be aware of other potential allergens. For example, some people may react to the citrus in oranges or the lactose in dairy products. It is also possible to have allergies to latex, mold, pet dander, and dust mites. A visit to an allergist or immunologist can help determine if you have any other allergies.
Most allergies can be managed with medications and lifestyle changes. For those with food allergies, it is important to educate yourself on potential allergens and to speak to your doctor or nutritionist about eliminating or reducing the exposure to those allergens. It is also important to know the symptoms of a potential reaction so you can act quickly if necessary.
Anaphylaxis
If a person experiences a severe allergic reaction, such as anaphylaxis, they should seek medical attention right away. Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, swelling of the airways, hives, and a drop in blood pressure. People who are prone to anaphylaxis should speak to their doctor about options and treatments to manage the condition.
If you have had past reactions to broccoli or another food and are concerned about a potential allergy, speaking to a healthcare professional is key. A healthcare professional can help diagnose a broccoli allergy and recommend the best course of action to prevent or manage a reaction.
Living with an Allergy
Living with an allergy does not have to be stressful. Finding ways to manage and prevent reactions as well as being informed about the condition can help to alleviate stress and anxiety about having an allergy.
It is also important to remember that most allergies are manageable and can often be treated with medications, lifestyle changes, and diet modifications. With the right treatment and management plan, it is possible to live a healthy, and even normal, life.
Elimination Diets
For people who are unsure of whether or not they have a broccoli allergy, an elimination diet may be recommended. During an elimination diet, a person will eliminate all suspected allergens from their diet for a period of time and then reintroduce them one at a time to see if an allergic reaction occurs. This should only be done with the help of a doctor or nutritionist, as it can be dangerous if done incorrectly.
In the case of broccoli allergies, the patient may be advised to avoid broccoli for a period of time and then reintroduce it one serving at a time. The serving size will be determined by their doctor, and if the patient experiences any adverse reactions, they should avoid broccoli indefinitely.
Conclusion
Although broccoli is not a common allergen, it is important to be aware of the potential for an allergic reaction. If you have experienced any reactions to broccoli, it is important to speak to your doctor or another healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and a proper treatment plan. With the right diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to successfully manage and even prevent broccoli allergies.
