What is the purpose of this test?
Order this White Bean Allergy IgE Blood Test to measure IgE antibody levels in the blood and help detect a white bean allergy. White beans, also known as Great Nothern beans, are legumes from the Fabaceae family, originating in Peru. White bean is a general name for a variety of beans with light-colored to entirely white seeds. They are recognized by their characteristic oval, slightly flattened shape, and delicate flavor. White beans are an ideal iron, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and copper source. 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 white beans.
What foods or products should I avoid if I have a white bean allergy?
Allergic individuals should pay close attention to avoiding foods containing white beans. Individuals with a white 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 white beans?
An individual's immune system reaction triggers most food allergies. For example, white 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 White Bean Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to a white 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 white 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
