Egg Allergy and Cheese: Are They Related?
When it comes to food allergies, it can be confusing to distinguish between which allergens are related and which are not. A common question many people ask is, 'If I am allergic to eggs, am I also allergic to cheese?' While these allergens are often mistaken for one another due to their overlap in categorization as dairy products, they are not directly related. However, there can be an increased likelihood of developing a second allergy once one has an initial allergy, and this can sometimes lead to confusion.
Understanding Egg and Cheese Allergies
Eggs and cheese are unrelated foods. Eggs come from chickens, while cheese is made from cow's or other animal milk. Despite this, there does seem to be an increased likelihood of having another food allergy once you have a first allergy. This phenomenon can be observed anecdotally, such as when a child allergic to milk and eggs shows no reaction to other foods.
Another common source of confusion is the mistaken belief by some that eggs are considered 'dairy' in certain religious contexts, such as in Kosher food. In fact, eggs are not considered dairy and are classified as 'pareve,' which means they can be eaten with either dairy or meat. This classification further emphasizes the difference between eggs and cheese.
Causes and Symptoms of Egg and Cheese Allergies
Egg allergy and cheese allergy involve different proteins, as egg allergy is caused by the body's immune system identifying egg protein as an enemy and combating it. Cheese, on the other hand, typically does not cause an immune response in individuals who are not allergic to milk or dairy products.
Some people may experience symptoms due to lactose intolerance, which can be confused with a food allergy. Lactose is a sugar found in milk, cheese, and other dairy products. Lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose, is often absent in individuals with lactose intolerance. This enzyme deficiency can lead to digestive issues after consuming dairy products but is not an allergy in the traditional sense.
What Are the Odds of Having Both Allergies?
While individuals allergic to eggs are less likely to be allergic to cheese, it is still possible. The primary difference is that if you are allergic to cheese, it means you may also be allergic to milk, yogurt, sour cream, and other dairy products due to their relatedness. However, eggs are not related to cheese or any other dairy products.
It is important to consult an allergist or healthcare provider if you experience symptoms after consuming cheese. They can perform appropriate testing and provide guidance based on your specific situation. Understanding the difference between an actual food allergy and lactose intolerance is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.