Fruit allergies: are they on the rise?

Six things to know about them.

If your kid has a fruit allergy, you’re probably wondering how he can get sick from something that’s supposed to be so good for him! But, before you go bananas, know that your child is certainly not alone on this one. In fact, fruit allergies are riper than ever.

According to Dr. Jennifer Sherman with Allergy & Asthma Specialists, PC, in Saddle River, NJ, their physicians are more consistently seeing fruit allergies, but adds that it may be a result of heightened allergy awareness and not that the number of people with these allergies is growing. Dr. Sherman also shared with us these six points on fruit allergies:

1. A fruit allergy is referred to as “oral allergy syndrome” (or OAS). This is because it causes reactions in the mouth, like an itchy mouth, itchy throat and/or swollen lips. So keep your eyes peeled!
2. OAS usually develops in those who have a pollen allergy. This is because the protein found in certain fruits is very similar to the protein found in pollen.
3. Fruit allergies tend to be at their worst when the particular allergen is in season. This is because of the amount of pollen in the air. (See a connection?!)
4. Apples, cherries and melons are a few of the bigger culprits. While many parents report strawberry allergies in younger children, that allergy doesn’t seem to stick around.
5. Most reactions to fruit occur when it’s eaten raw. If it’s cooked or heated (for example, apple pie and apple juice) and symptoms occur, your child definitely has an issue.
6. Individuals with a latex allergy may also have a fruit allergy. That’s right; latex occurs naturally in some fruits, including bananas, kiwi and avocado (yes, it’s a fruit!).

We hope these facts helped you to get to the CORE of the fruit allergy. (So many fruit puns, so little time!) ; )

Dr Jennifer Sherman is a physician at Allergy & Asthma Specialists, PC in Saddle River, New Jersey. She is board certified in pediatrics, and allergy and immunology. Dr Sherman is a passionate advocate on national and local levels for patients with food allergy. She was named the honorary medical chair for the FAANs annual food allergy walk, serves as medical advisor to local support groups, is active in educating area school nurses, and frequently delivers lectures to other physicians on the subject of food allergy. Dr Sherman lives in New Jersey with her husband and their three sons.