What is the purpose of this test?
Order this Guar Bean Gum Allergy IgE Blood Test to measure IgE antibody levels in the blood and help detect a guar gum allergy. Guar bean gum, commonly known as guar gum, is a gum-like substance derived from the grounded seeds of the guar bean plant. Guar beans originated in Africa but are now cultivated in regions like Arabia, India, Pakistan, the United States, and northern Australia. Guar gum is a food additive that thickens and stabilizes foods during commercial processing. Guar gum is characterized by its yellowish color, powder consistency, solubility, and extreme thickening power. As a result, it is a crucial ingredient in many baked goods, baking mixes, fat-free spreads, cereals, beverages, and cheeses. Unfortunately, some hypersensitive individuals may experience an allergic reaction from consuming guar gum.
What foods or products should I avoid if I have a guar gum allergy?
Allergic individuals should pay close attention to avoiding foods containing guar gum. This may be difficult as many products contain guar gum as a key ingredient. Individuals with a guar gum allergy should avoid the following foods or products:
- Baked goods, especially gluten-free baked goods
- Baking mixes and puddings
- Ice cream
- Yogurt
- Salad dressing
- Gravies
- Sauces
- Kefir
- Breakfast cereals
- Vegetable juice
- Soups
- Cheese and other dairy products
- Certain cosmetics, medicines, and paper products
What causes an allergy to guar gum?
An individual's immune system reaction triggers most food allergies after it comes in contact with specific proteins or substances found in foods. 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. While no key allergens have been identified as causing an allergic reaction to guar gum, an adverse response could be due to cross-reactivity with other foods or plants such as Carob beans, peanuts, garden peas, chickpeas, and soybeans.
When should I order a Guar Bean Gum Allergy IgE Blood Test?
Individuals may order this test if they have experienced symptoms related to a guar gum 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 guar gum 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
