Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alpha-gal?
Alpha-gal, more formally known as Galactose-alpha-1, 3-galactose, is a carbohydrate present in all mammals except humans and apes. While alpha-gal is not naturally found in humans, it can be implanted by a tick. The Lone-Star tick, commonly found in southeastern parts of the United States, has been identified as the main transporter of alpha-gal. In humans, this molecule affects the way the body reacts to a certain enzyme found in mammalian meat, causing an allergic reaction.
A unique characteristic of this allergy is the length of time an individual experiences the onset of symptoms after exposure. With most allergies, reactions occur quickly after contact with an allergen. Alpha-gal can take upwards of 6-8 hours after exposure before symptoms are present. The source of the allergen is hard to identify because the reaction often occurs after midnight. The timing of the reaction leaves individuals confused and frightened and makes diagnosis difficult.
Allergens can be transported in more ways than just through ingestion. Any meal can give rise to risk, even when the individual opts for a mammalian-free lifestyle. Smoke fumes, cross-contamination, processed foods, medications, and self-care products can all pose risks. For this reason, it is vital to understand every ingredient you ingest. Download an allergy food application for shopping and dining, keep a food journal to document your diet, and use an elimination diet if unclear of the allergen source.
FAQs
Should I become a vegetarian?
Although a vegetarian diet is often adopted by newly diagnosed individuals, poultry and seafood are safe to consume. A common reference when explaining your dietary restrictions to others: We can eat fins (fish) and feathers (poultry).
Is there treatment or a cure?
At this time there is no cure for alpha-gal. The only treatment is avoidance. Create a list of foods to avoid, always check the ingredient labels, and if you’re unsure, do not eat.
Can dairy cause a reaction?
Correct. Some individuals have reported allergic responses or intolerance to dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt, and have been forced to eliminate diary from their diet in order to avoid allergen exposure.
Can you test for the allergy?
Yes. There are blood and skin tests. The blood test can confirm alpha-gal through the amount of antibodies in your blood. The skin test exposes your skin to minute amounts of red meat. If you're allergic, you’ll exhibit signs of a reaction at the test site.
Do I have to avoid gelatin?
Correct. Gelatin is derived from mammalian by-products, commonly used as a stabilizing or thickening agent and included in popular sweets like gummies, jello, and marshmallows.
Allergic to only red meat?
Incorrect. A reaction can occur with any mammalian meat, including but not limited to beef, pork, lamb, venison, bison, and buffalo. Animals that have hooves, walks on four legs, and give live birth should be avoided. Sausage and hotdog casings are usually made of pork, avoid all cased meats unless it is clear the entirety of the product is safe for consumption.
Can I grow out of the allergy?
It is possible. Some have reported that they have grown out of the allergy after a few years, resuming consumption of mammalian meat and making sure to avoid further bites from Lone Star ticks carrying alpha-gal.
What else contains gelatin?
Vitamins, cosmetics and self-care products. Vitamins use gelatin for coating, capsules, and soft gels. Many cosmetics are known to hide the ingredients in creams, face masks, and nail treatments.
Other types of exposure?
Smoke fumes. Odors are made of tiny particles that can enter the body through the skin, mouth, or nose, causing a reaction through exposure. Particles can also be transported through cross-contamination. This could result from preparing meals on the same surface, using the same cooking equipment, or sharing utensils and straws.
Beginner Tips
Study all ingredients.
Learn the ingredient names and understand what they are used for in foods. By doing so, you can proactively avoid potential exposure. Ingredients can change, read the nutrition facts label each time when checking for allergens.
Food & allergy apps.
Download a food allergy app on your phone. Whether you approach shopping cautiously, or use a content checker that warns you of food containing allergens, there are apps available for every comfort level and lifestyle requirement.
Elimination diet & food diary.
The next reaction will happen, not '“if,” but “when.” The severity and frequency is up to you. It could be a new medication that contains gelatin, or a recently developed intolerance. Keep track and be judicious.