The Allergy Free Shop exists to provide parents and caretakers with allergen-free foods and products for those with food allergies and sensitivities. We also strive to provide resources that help to provide guidance to those just beginning their education about specific food allergies affecting their children.

Wheat allergy is part of the "Big Eight", one of the eight most common food allergies currently found here in the US. And similar to the other allergies, it too is growing in diagnosis and prevalence.

But what is typically referred to as "wheat allergy" is actually a collection of closely inter-related allergies. This is because there is a wide spectrum of wheat proteins, and each one can cause reactions.

The main protein classes include albumins, globulins, prolamins and glutelins. Over 40 different allergens in wheat have been detected, though gluten is the predominant factor. Many allergic individuals will also cross-react with related grains, such as barley and rye.

Related conditions include respiratory allergy to wheat pollen, an occupational disease that sometimes develops in bakers and food service workers, and is similar to typical grass allergies. And as explained in a previous post on the topic, celiac disease is also caused from exposure to gluten, but is different from wheat allergy.

Signs and Symptoms

An individual’s response to wheat allergens is similar to that found with most other food allergies. Eczema, hives, itching and swelling, abdominal pain and nausea are all typical. Migraines also seem to be a common symptom of exposure. In extreme cases, anaphylactic shock is possible. Special tests can help diagnose wheat allergy, although detection of these allergens can be harder than other food allergies.

Wheat allergy can also trigger two relatively unique conditions, 1) exercise-induced and 2) aspirin-induced anaphylaxis and urticaria. These can occur with other food allergens as well, but happen more frequently in relation to wheat allergies. Recent studies show that both aspirin and exercise increase the presence of gliadin, a common wheat allergen, in the blood stream. For this reason, sensitive individuals should talk with their doctor and possibly avoid aspirin products, and pay close attention to warning signs while exercising.

Some parents of autistic children also ascribe their child’s symptoms to wheat allergies, among other foods, although published data supporting this view is sparse.

Avoiding Wheat Products

An avoidance diet is the only certain defense. As noted, some wheat allergic people can still eat other grains and food products, allowing for substitutions such as rye bread. Gluten-free oats may be a useful source of cereal fiber, and rice flour is a commonly used alternative for those allergic to wheat.

As always reading labels is a must, considering the high prevalence of products that contain wheat. The Food Allergy Labeling Consumer Protection Act requires that labels be marked such that a 7-year old could read and understand the ingredients, and that all allergens are fully declared. For more information on this regulation, please see: Food Allergy Labeling

Allergy Free Shop offers a wide variety of foods that are Wheat Free. Some of our best sellers are Kitchen Table Bakers Aged Parmesan Mini Crisps, Bob’s Red Mill All Purpose Gluten-Free Baking Flour, and BiAglut Pasta Mia Fusilli.

Our goal is to provide you with a wide variety of allergy-free products for you and your children, a place where you can find everything you need in one convenient place. And with careful vigilance and understanding of your specific condition, you CAN avoid future exposure and allergic reactions to food allergens!

Labels: big eight, celiac, food allergy, gluten, wheat allergy