Food Allergy to Black Beans

Black beans are most likely not the first food that comes to mind when you think about food allergies. Foods such as milk, fish and nuts are some of the most common foods that can trigger an allergic reaction in people. Although certain foods are more likely to cause an allergic reaction in most people, you can have an allergy to any food. If you develop common allergy symptoms after eating black beans, you need to be tested for a food allergy. A clinical diagnosis can assist you in treating and preventing a future allergic reaction.

Black Beans

Black beans are a part of the legume family. The Cleveland Clinic states that if you’re allergic to black beans, you are more likely to be allergic to other legumes. Soybeans and peanuts are two of the most common food allergens that are also a part of the legume family. If you have a known peanut or soybean allergy, you should avoid eating black beans and other legumes. Black beans are commonly used in Mexican cuisine, stews and other ethic dishes. If eating out, inform your server of your food allergy before ordering to prevent accidentally ingesting black beans.

Allergy

If you’re allergic to black beans, the proteins found in the legume trigger an overreaction of the immune system. Although black bean proteins are safe for human consumption, your immune system makes the mistake of identifying them as dangerous. This mistake alarms the body as if it were under attack. The result of this chemical reaction is the production of immunoglobulin E antibodies and other chemicals, according to MedlinePlus 1. Antibodies are disease-fighting agents that protect the body from infectious diseases. The release of these antibodies and other chemicals causes swelling in various parts of your body that leads to common food allergy symptoms.

Effects

After eating black beans, you may develop minor to severe symptoms in different parts of your body. Your lungs and sinuses may become inflamed and swollen, cutting off your normal ability to breathe throughout your nose and mouth. This can cause asthma, chest pain, wheezing, nasal congestion and sinus headaches. Complications to your digestive system may cause nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain and vomiting shortly after eating black beans. Skin reactions may include inflammation, irritation, redness and itching.

Treatment

All food allergies are incurable. You will need to avoid the consumption of black beans and any other legumes that cause an allergic reaction in your body. If you accidentally consume black beans, call your doctor immediately.