Latex allergies are increasing. Latex is extracted from rubber trees, processed and made into all kinds of things used every day from dental devices to office supplies. If you have a latex allergy, you could have an allergic reaction to certain raw fruits and vegetables. This is due to cross-reaction, where the body’s immune system interprets innocent proteins as the offending latex protein.
Allergy symptoms
Latex allergy symptoms include skin reactions, the development of a rash or hives; itching with swollen, red skin; swelling of the lips and tongue; shortness of breath; wheezing or difficulty breathing; dizziness or fainting; stomach pain and diarrhea. Severe cases can include anaphylactic shock, which requires emergency attention. The best treatment of latex allergy is prevention by avoidance of the allergen.
Which foods can cause a trigger?
There are many fruits and vegetables that can cause cross-reactions. Some foods, however, stand out: avocados, bananas, and chestnuts. Apples, carrots, celery, kiwis, melons, papayas, raw potatoes and tomatoes have moderate levels of association to latex allergies. If eating these foods causes an allergic reaction, avoid them in the future.
Other foods that might be a problem
Foods that have low levels of association with latex allergies should also be treated with a certain amount of suspicion. These foods include apricots, cherries, figs, hazelnuts, mangoes, nectarines, passion fruit, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums, peanuts, rye, strawberries, soybeans, walnuts, and wheat. If you have no reaction to these foods, they can be kept in the diet.