If you are allergic to pickles then you suffer from Allergies Type 1, also called Contact Allergies. Ahh, pickles. We all love them! From the big juicy dills that go just perfectly with a sandwich and chips, to the sweet gherkins that grace our dinner tables. Pickles are a commodity that most everyone enjoys. But sadly, many people suffer from pickle allergies, and they aren’t even sure why. These allergies generally appear suddenly, and can be present in both children and adults. If you’ve started having strange reactions to your favorite snack, read on for more information about why pickle allergies occur.
The thing that most people don’t realize about pickle allergies, is that they are typically caused not by the pickle itself, but by the preservatives used in the pickling process. These pickling agents often cause allergic reactions in people who are then unable to pinpoint the cause of their reaction. The worst part about it, is that these preservatives can be found in a great many more foods than just pickles. Many foods that contain any type of vinegar also contain these pickling agents that can cause pickle allergies.
The most common additives that cause pickle allergies are as follows: sodium sulfite, sodium bisulfite, and sodium metabisulfite. If you have previously experienced any sort of allergic reaction to pickles, then it is likely that you are probably having a reaction to one or more of these ingredients. The easiest way to prevent this from occurring in the future is to carefully review the ingredients in any preserved foods, to make certain that they do not contain any of these ingredients.
The most common signs and symptoms of pickle allergies are pretty much the same as with any other food allergy. Hives, or a rash can occur, which can generally be treated with an external steroid cream, as can asthmatic symptoms, such as wheezing or difficulty drawing a breath. Other signs of pickle allergies may also include gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea, cramps and diarrhea. The most severe symptoms of pickle allergies can progress into what is known as anaphylaxis. This is a swelling of the throat, which can completely block a person’s airway. This can lead to coma, and if untreated, even death.
The easiest way to prevent pickle allergies, is to set an appointment with your doctor so that he or she can perform allergy tests. These tests will let you know exactly which preservative it is that you are allergic to. To prevent future pickle allergies, simply avoid any foods which contain that particular preservative.
Common Vitamins and over the counter products can help with allergies due to pickles such as vitamin A, vitamin C, beta carotene, bananas and pantothenic acid.
Vitamin A is a known antioxidant and can assist the human body in the healing process. Vitamin A is stored in the liver and fat cells of the human body and can reach toxic levels. DO NOT take more than the recommended dosage of Vitamin A.
Vitamin C is nature’s protective nutrient, essential for defending the body against pollution and infection and enhances the bodies immune system.
Beta Carotene protects the mucus membranes of the mouth, nose, throat and lungs. It also helps protect Vitamin C from oxidation, which enables it to perform at optimum efficiency.
Many find Pantothenic Acid to be very helpful against allergy symptoms. It is another form of nontoxic B vitamins. Pantothenic Acid is critical in the metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. Bananas have long been recognized for their anti-acid effects that protect against stomach ulcers and ulcer damage. Always consult your doctor before using this information.
This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.
