The proteins in peanuts trigger allergies in the human body, which is it’s our overactive defence to something our bodies see as an invader. The immune system misidentifies the proteins and believes them to be dangerous, sending out an antibody known as immunoglobulin E to deal with the allergens. These antibodies trigger other chemicals to be released which fight the proteins – one of these is a histamine which leads to the nut allergy symptoms that we associate with a peanut intolerance. You’ll notice these symptoms a few minutes after eating something with nuts in, which can be severe or mild depending on your condition. Many people experience skin-based reactions, including rashes, swelling and redness. Stomach complaints are also common, including cramps, nausea and vomiting. You may notice respiratory symptoms as well, including itchy eyes, runny nose, congestion and asthma-like wheezing or coughing. The most dangerous response is anaphylaxis which can be potentially fatal. The signs of this are breathing difficulties and a drop in blood pressure – medical attention is vital if this is the case.
Direct consumption of peanuts can trigger an allergic reaction, but it doesn’t always work this way – foods with peanuts can have the same effect, as can coming into contact with peanuts. This means inhaling the dust or flour with peanuts traces in them, which can trigger a reaction. You immune system generally fights infection, but when you have an allergy the immune system overreacts and sets off a trigger for the symptoms. These include coughing, wheezing, a tightness in your throat, itchy eyes, vomiting, hives and diarrhoea. It depends on the person as to what reactions you’ll have but often people experience several of these symptoms. Some allergies, such as eggs or milk, can be outgrown with age – however, most people with a nut allergy will have it for the rest of their lives.
Living with an allergy can be difficult and requires careful monitoring. This includes checking food labels, even for items you may not think has nuts in, as well as checking with staff at restaurants when you eat a meal in case it has come into contact with nuts at any point. You should also tell family and friends about your allergies, so that they can be aware when serving you food or preparing for your dietary requirements. Some of the most common foods with nuts in them are cookies and baked goods, which have often come into contact with nuts during their preparation; sweets, which are generally made in factories where nuts are used as a hidden ingredient; ice cream, which is a surprising food which many people don’t consider but which often has come into contact with nuts; Asian and African cuisines, which use nuts a lot in their foods, and sauces, which also use peanut butter as a thickener.
You should always tread carefully when it comes to foods you haven’t prepared yourself, as you can never be too careful. Some manufacturers may have changed their recipes or procedures without informing the consumer, leaving you open to a reaction. Be careful, also, of cross-contamination which can occur with kitchen utensils and work surfaces. Knives, cutting boards and even the toaster may all have come into contact with nuts, leaving you susceptible to a trigger for swelling, rashes and respiratory symptoms. If you think that you’ve got a peanut, or any other food, allergy it’s important that you seek medical advice on the subject as soon as possible – allergy specialists can run simple but effective tests to determine what you’re allergic to.
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