What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Lima Bean Allergy IgE Blood Test to measure IgE antibody levels in the blood and help detect a lima bean allergy. Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are legumes from the Fabaceae family, originating in South America. Lima beans are recognized by their characteristic green or light green hue, flattened kidney shape, and delicate flavor. Lima beans are an ideal source of iron, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, protein, and vitamins B1 & B6. As a result, they are a staple dish in many Americans' diets, baked with sauces or added to soups, stews, and baked dishes. However, some hypersensitive individuals may experience an allergic reaction from ingesting lima beans.
What foods or products should I avoid if I have a lima bean allergy?
Allergic individuals should pay close attention to avoiding foods containing lima beans. Individuals with a lima bean allergy should avoid the following foods or products:
- Certain soups or stews
- Casseroles or baked dishes
- Succotash
- Canned, dried, fresh beans
- Bean sprouts
- Certain American Southern dishes
- Foods that contain saponin (legumes, chickpeas, soybeans, amaranth seeds)
What causes an allergy to lima beans?
An individual's immune system reaction triggers most food allergies. For example, lima beans contain saponin in their coating, which triggers an adverse response in an individual's immune system. The body considers certain substances toxic and produces IgE antibodies to combat these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
When should I order a Lima Bean Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to a lima bean allergy. Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can occur within minutes to hours after consumption. Common symptoms of a lima bean allergy may include one or more of the following symptoms:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Vomiting
- Hives
- Itching or tingling around the mouth or lips
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, or throat
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
- Wheezing
A severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can occur in the most severe cases. An anaphylactic response requires immediate medical attention. Signs or symptoms of anaphylaxis include:
- Rapid or increased pulse
- Swollen throat or lump making it difficult to breathe
- Low blood pressure
- Extreme dizziness or loss of consciousness
