Black bean allergy is considered an infrequent type of food allergy that occurs in some individuals. Black beans are not the initial foods that come to mind when thinking of food allergies.
Even though certain foods are more likely to trigger an allergic reaction in many individuals, one can develop an allergy to any food. Once the individual develops the common allergy symptoms after ingesting black beans, he/she requires testing. A diagnosis can help in managing and averting any future allergic reaction.
Close look on black beans
Black beans are considered part of the legume family. If an individual is highly sensitive or allergic to black beans, he/she is more likely to be allergic to other legumes. Peanuts and soybeans are considered as the most prevalent food allergens that are included in the legume family.
If the individual has a known soybean or peanut allergy, he/she must avoid consuming black beans or other similar legumes. Always bear in mind that black beans are widely used in stews, Mexican cuisine and other ethnic dishes. When eating outside, the individual should inform the server of his/her allergy before ordering to prevent unintentional ingestion of black beans.
Close look on black bean allergy
If the individual has black bean allergy, the proteins present in the legume can trigger overreaction of the immune system. Even though the proteins in black beans are considered safe for consumption, the immune system wrongly identifies them as a threat.
This alerts the body as if it is under attack. The outcome of this chemical reaction is the release of immunoglobulin E antibodies along with other chemicals. The antibodies are the disease-fighting agents that are responsible for protecting the body from infectious diseases. The release of these antibodies and other chemicals triggers swelling in different parts of the body that result to the manifestation of the common food allergy symptoms.
What are the effects?
After the consumption of black beans, the individual can end up with minimal to severe symptoms in various parts of the body. The sinuses and lungs can end up swollen and inflamed which disrupts the normal capability of the individual to breathe via the nose and mouth.
This can result to chest pain, asthma as well as wheezing, sinus headaches and nasal congestion. The possible complications affecting the digestive system can lead to diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain and vomiting right after ingesting black beans. The skin reactions include irritation, inflammation, redness and itchiness.
Treatment
Always bear in mind that all food allergies do not have a cure. It is vital to avoid the consumption of black beans and other legumes that can trigger an allergic reaction in the body. Once the individual accidentally consumed black beans, a doctor must be consulted right away.