What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Whey Allergy IgE Blood Test to measure the IgE antibody levels in the blood to help detect an allergy to the milk protein whey. Whey is the liquid remaining after milk has been curdled and strained. It is one of two main proteins in milk, making up 20% of the protein in cow's milk.
Whey is the cloudy yellowish liquid expelled from cheese curds during the cheese-making process, and the liquid is strained from fresh yogurt. Acidic whey, also known as sour whey, comes from yogurt and soft cheeses such as cottage or mozzarella. Sweet whey comes from harder cheeses produced with rennet, such as cheddar and swiss.
What causes an allergy to whey?
An allergy to whey triggers a reaction in an individual's immune system. The body views certain substances as toxic and produces IgE antibodies to these contaminants. These antibodies cause histamine to be released, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
What foods or products should I avoid if I am allergic to whey?
Individuals allergic to whey should steer clear of dairy products, food, and whey-based ingredients to prevent an allergic reaction. Whey is present in many foods it can be challenging to avoid. Individuals needing to remove whey from their diet should pay close attention to the ingredients in the following common products:
- Whey and Whey products
- Protein shakes
- Dairy products (cheeses, butter, margarine, and all forms of dairy milk)
- Ice cream and Sherbet
- Custards, yogurt, and pudding
- Sauces that contain dairy
- Au gratin dishes
- Baked goods (cookies, bread, crackers, and cakes)
- Chocolate, nougat, and cream candy
- Coffee creamers
- Malted milk
- Creamed or scalloped foods
- Mashed potatoes
- Salad dressings
- Canned and processed meats, including cold cuts and deli meats
- Casein and caseinates
- Ghee
- Curd
- Rennet
- Hydrolysates
- Lactalbumin, lactalbumin phosphate
- Lactose, lactoglobulin, lactoferrin, and lactulose
When should I order a Whey Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions, which can occur within minutes to hours after exposure. Common symptoms of a whey allergy may include one or more of the following symptoms:
- Coughing
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Red eyes
- Watery eyes
- Bloating
- Stomach pain
- Gas
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
Sample Report
Test Code(s):
602501, 3248
Also Known As:
Bos spp; Cow's Whey; ImmunoCAP f236
Preparation:
No special preparation is required.
Test Results:
4-6 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
