John Warner once said, “In this world, about 20% of the population believe themselves to have a food allergy, and only about 5% actually do.”
when it comes to allergies, we all have a different perspective towards it. While some think that it is the condition that will pass with the time other grips on it as a fear for the whole life. Whatever the perceptions are, having allergies can lead to life-threatening reactions.
Fish allergy is one of the most common food allergies. Around 2.3 percent of people in the United States are allergic to fish, and shellfish. The problem is fishes are the rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids that are counted as essential nutrition for the human body. As our body cannot produce it on its own it depends on the external sources to fulfil the requirement.
The link between fish oil and fish allergy
People who suffer from a fish allergy often suffer from omega-3 deficiency which can lead to various skin, heart, and brain-related issues in the body. As they cannot consume the fish, they look for the replacement products like fish oil pills, but can they incorporate fish oil into their daily life without triggering any allergic reaction? Maybe or Maybe not.
Generally, the fish allergy is triggered by a protein in the fish muscle called ‘parvalbumin’, and there are fair chances that this protein may be found in many fish oil products.
Survey on the fish oil supplement
Although the fish allergies are rare, they have reported. American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) recommends people with this rare allergy to visit the dermatologist, bring the fish oil supplement they are considering to consume, and get it tested to find out if they have any allergic reaction to the specific supplement.
The ACAAI also found that people who are allergic to fish have a low risk of having the same allergic reaction from the fish oil. However, the study included only two brands of fish oil, and a small group of people participated in this study. Therefore, newer studies are required to determine the fish oil can or cannot cause an allergic reaction.
Common symptoms of fish oil allergy
An allergic reaction to fish and shellfish often begins in childhood and lasts for life. About 40% of the people with fish allergy have experienced their first allergic reaction as the adult. Some of the most common symptoms of fish or fish oil allergy are as given below:
- Wheezing
- Itching
- Nasal congestion
- Headaches
- Rash
- Swelling of the tongue, lips, and face
- Swelling in hands, and other parts of the body
- Diarrhea or stomach pain
Although the fish oil contains a small or no amount of parvalbumin the allergic reaction to it can be the same as fish or shellfish allergy. Among all the common symptoms there is a serious reaction known as anaphylaxis that can be life-threatening.
The similarities between side effects of fish oil, and symptoms of fish allergy
If you don’t have an allergic reaction to fish or shellfish then, there are less likely chances that you will react to fish oil. Some people have side effects of omega-3 fish oil, but that doesn’t mean that they are allergic to fish. The thing is there are similarities between the side effects of fish oil, and symptoms of fish allergy as both of them include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Upset stomach
- Acid reflux
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms after taking fish oil supplements then, consult with the doctor, and find out whether you are having the symptoms of allergic reaction or symptoms of side-effects.
Other fish-free sources of omega-3
The reason why fish or fish oil is recommended as a health supplement is because they are rich with Omega-3 fatty acids with EPA, and DHA. These are good fats your body needs to function properly. However, just because you are allergic to fish doesn’t mean that you cannot obtain the omega-3. There are other fish-free sources that you can consume to fulfill the body requirements including;
- Chia seeds
- Soybeans
- Walnuts
- Hempseeds
- Flaxseeds
- Spinach
Although the fish allergy is very rare, and you can still have the side effects of fish oil without having an allergy, it is suggested to consult with your doctor before exposing yourself to any supplement. Moreover, if you want to learn more about the fish oil supplement then, feel free to pay a visit to Healthy Naturals today.
