Red meat is a common staple of diets, especially during summer bbq season. But what many don’t realize is that upwards of 20% of the population may have undiagnosed allergies to red meat. The symptoms of this allergy may be minute enough to go undetected for years on end. Unfortunately, serious side effects can come with undiagnosed allergies to red meat.

If you suspect you may be suffering from a red meat allergy, our functional medicine doctor in Nassau County may be able to help!

What causes a red meat allergy?

Research has found that red meat allergies are widely caused by a specific sugar molecule. This sugar molecule, known as alpha-gal, is found widely in pork, lamb, beef, and other red meats. A Lone Star tick bite is a common cause of a red meat allergy because they carry alpha-gal. When you are bitten by this tick, it causes your body to react against this sugar in order to protect your body. An important component in developing meat allergies is related to an individual microbiome. Recent research points to microbiome diversity and genetic susceptibility as important determinants of the severity of red meat allergy.

What are the symptoms?

Individuals with a red meat allergy often do not show any signs of the allergy for hours after digesting red meat. For this reason, it is difficult for the body to combat.

Symptoms of a red meat allergy include:

  • A runny nose or congestion
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea
  • Sneezing
  • Hives
  • Asthma

What does a red meat allergy do?

Red meat allergies have been strongly linked to early heart conditions, including heart disease. The most dangerous effect of a red meat allergy is anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is the constriction of the blood vessels and airways to the point blood pressure drop dangerously low. Atherosclerosis is another common side effect of allergies such as red meat allergies. Atherosclerosis is a buildup of fatty plaque in the blood vessels, which hardens over time. It is important to get proper treatment for a red meat allergy with a functional medicine doctor in Nassau County.

Who is at risk for a red meat allergy?

People over the age of 65 are most at risk for red meat allergies. Many people are unaware of their allergy, however, due to its often environmental onset. Those who have been bitten by a Lone Star tick are also highly at risk.

If you fear you are suffering from a red meat allergy, contact a functional medicine doctor in Nassau County today! Let us help you in living your best life!