Wheat allergy is becoming a growing concern globally and is becoming one of the most common food allergiesAccording to the Cleveland Clinic, when you have a wheat allergy, your immune system overreacts to wheat that you eat or smell. Although wheat is harmless to most people, the immune systems of people with wheat allergies treat it as a dangerous “invader,” similar to a bacteria or virus. In severe cases, wheat allergy can be life-threatening. Symptoms such as swelling in the throat require immediate medical attention.

Wheat allergy can cause a range of symptoms ranging from mild digestive problems to some serious reactions such as hives, swelling and anaphylaxis. If a person suspects a wheat allergy but is awaiting a definitive diagnosis, precautions need to be taken to control symptoms to avoid complications.

So what signs should you pay attention to if you’re allergic to wheat? Are there any precautionary measures that can help prevent wheat allergies? We contacted experts like Dr. Neeti Sharma, Head – Nutrition and Dietetics, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram, and Dr. Rutuja Ugalmugle, Consultant Internal Medicine, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, who shared pointers and safety measures to follow. Did it.

Dr. Rutuja lists seven symptoms you may be ignoring that could be a sign of a wheat allergy:

1. Long Term Digestive Problems:

Wheat allergy is not the same as celiac disease or gluten intolerance, although the digestive problems may overlap. If you’re experiencing frequent bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea or nausea after eating wheat, it could be an allergic reaction. If you find that you always feel sick after eating wheat, consult a doctor.

2. Unexplained Skin Reactions:

Rashes, hives or eczema that appear for no reason may be associated with wheat. These allergic skin reactions usually appear within a few minutes to a few hours of eating wheat and last as long as exposure continues. Pay attention to red, itchy patches or swelling, especially on the face and limbs.

3. Respiratory Symptoms:

A wheat allergy causes respiratory reactions such as nasal congestion, sneezing, wheezing or shortness of breath if you eat wheat flour or consume foods made from wheat. Anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening reaction characterized by narrowing of the airways, can occur in severe cases and requires immediate medical attention.

4. Fatigue and brain fog: Although often attributed to stress or sleepiness, unexplained fatigue and inability to concentrate could be an allergic reaction to wheat. Symptoms may be caused by the body’s inflammatory response and activation of the immune system to allergens.

5. Headache or Migraine:

Headaches or migraines that occur frequently, especially after eating wheat products, may be a sign of a wheat allergy. In addition to the classic symptoms, in some people the body may react to allergies with neurological reactions.

6. Burning sensation in mouth and throat:

Itching, tingling, or swelling of the mouth, lips, throat, or tongue after eating wheat is a common symptom of oral allergy syndrome. This is a condition that occurs when wheat proteins cause localized allergic reactions. In some cases, these mild symptoms can turn into more serious reactions.

7. Changes in behavior or irritability:

Manifestations of wheat allergy in children are often behavioral, such as irritability, hyperactivity, or mood changes. These symptoms may be due to physical discomfort, digestive problems or stress on the immune system and hence the diet that causes them needs to be considered.

How to prevent wheat allergy?

Early diagnosis can help prevent complications. If you or someone you know experiences any symptoms, take it seriously and seek medical advice. Dr. Neeti Sharma, Head – Nutrition and Dietetics, Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram shares tips to keep wheat allergy at bay.

1. Beware of Cross-Contamination: Cross-contamination occurs in shared kitchens and with the food production process. You should have separate utensils, cutting boards, and toasters for wheat-free foods. If you’re dining out, tell the staff about your allergies and request to know how the food was prepared to avoid accidental exposure.

2. Eliminate wheat from your diet: Avoid wheat, including in bread, pasta, cereals or baked goods. Always scan food labels, as they often contain hidden derivatives like gluten, spelt and semolina in processed foods. For example, replace wheat with rice, quinoa, gluten-free oats or millet.

3. Keep track of your symptoms: Keep a food diary to track your reactions to certain foods. The type of food, time consumed and any symptoms experienced can be noted. This helps in identifying the triggers and you can also consult dietitians or doctors.

4. Try alternatives: Try buckwheat and gram flour in preparing meals and snacks. These are versatile and very nutritious, providing the same texture but without the effects of wheat.

5. Increase Your Nutrition: Wheat may be low in some nutrients like fiber, iron and vitamin B. To compensate for this, eat lots of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and beans. Consult a dietitian for advice on your diet.

“Gluten proteins should be avoided, we can add rice, khichdi, besan cheela instead of wheat chapati. Managing suspected wheat allergy requires vigilance and proactivity. With the right choice, you can reduce your symptoms and lead a healthy life until you find your actual diagnosis,” explains Dr Neeti.

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