How to Know Corn Allergy Symptoms

An allergy to corn, while rare, can be potentially dangerous. People who are allergic to corn aren't just allergic to the kernel itself, but to any product containing the corn protein. Allergy symptoms can occur after contact with food products made with corn-derivative ingredients, many of which are found in the average kitchen cupboard. In order to know whether the corn-derived foods in your cupboards are causing your symptoms, it's important to know what symptoms are typical of a corn allergy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Know that people who experience digestive ills after eating corn are likely to have a food intolerance, not an allergy. While an intolerance to corn makes if difficult and uncomfortable to digest the food, you will most likely only experience gastrointestinal symptoms directly related to your ingestion of corn.

2. Connect the histamine-reaction symptoms you have after contact with corn or any corn-protein containing products with an allergy. Since the allergy is actually a reaction to the protein found in corn, your body will react as though it is under attack by a toxic intruder. You may experience swelling, itching, labored breathing, rashes and dizziness.

3. Confirm with your doctor that your symptoms are actually related to a corn allergy. An allergy to corn requires tremendous changes in eating habits and lifestyle, so it's important to know unequivocally that it is the correct diagnosis. The doctor will perform a number of blood and skin tests to confirm the allergy.

4. Learn the other names for corn-protein derivatives. In order to avoid ingesting foods with the protein, you will need to know what names to look for on labels. Typically the protein is known as dextrin, which can be found in the ingredients: dextrose, dextrates, maltodextrin, cornstarch, corn syrup, malt extracts and other vegetable starches.

5. Consult with a nutritionist for advice as to how to avoid foods that can trigger an allergic reaction. She will be able to help you create a shopping list and menu as well as provide tips for how to eat safely at restaurants and friends' houses.

Tips & Warnings

• Patients with allergies to corn usually don't need to avoid corn oil. The oil has had the proteins removed and is unlikely to cause allergic symptoms. However, it's best to check with your doctor before ingesting it.
• Corn allergies seem to have some genetic connection. If you have other food allergies, eczema or other severe non-food allergies, you are more likely to be allergic to corn.

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