03/13/2025
Did you know that if you're allergic to pollen, certain fruits and veggies could trigger unexpected reactions? It’s called Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS), and here’s what you need to know!
OAS happens when your immune system confuses proteins in specific raw foods with pollen allergens. While OAS is typically mild, it can cause surprising symptoms and, in some cases, indicate more serious allergies.
WHAT IS ORAL ALLERGY SYNDROME?
OAS is a type of food allergy caused by cross-reactivity between pollen and similar proteins in raw fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Reactions are confined to the lips, mouth and throat.
COMMON POLLEN &FOOD CROSS-REACTIONS
Birch pollen: Apples, carrots, almonds, cherries, hazelnuts, peaches.
Ragweed pollen: Melons, bananas, cucumbers, zucchini.
Grass pollen: Tomatoes, oranges, melons, celery.
SYMPTOMS OF OAS
Symptoms often appear within minutes of eating raw trigger foods and usually stay mild:
--Tingling or itchiness in the mouth, lips, tongue, or throat.
--Mild swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat.
--A scratchy sensation that resolves quickly, often without treatment.
WHY DOES OAS HAPPEN?
OAS occurs because the immune system mistakes proteins in certain raw foods for pollen allergens, triggering mild allergy-like symptoms. For example, someone allergic to birch pollen might react to apples due to similar protein structures.
HOW TO MANAGE OAS SAFELY
--Identify Trigger Foods: Keep a food diary to track and avoid problem foods.
--Cook or Peel Foods: Cooking destroys the proteins responsible for OAS, making them safe to eat.
--Be Cautious During Allergy Season: When pollen counts are high, symptoms may worsen.
--Consult an Allergist: Testing can confirm OAS and differentiate it from severe food allergies.
WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE
While OAS is typically mild, seek medical attention if symptoms go beyond the mouth and throat (e.g., difficulty breathing, widespread itching, or severe swelling).
