Yeast Allergy

Yeasts are naturally-occurring microorganisms in the environment that is extremely important in the food industry and science. However, for some reason, certain people react to yeast abnormally. Because of this, they are prohibited from consuming or even encountering yeast in their daily lives to prevent serious complications on their well-being.

Mechanism of the Allergic Reaction

Some people are highly sensitive to yeast.  According to statistics, one out of three Americans has this type of allergy.  People with yeast allergy are hypersensitive to a protein present in yeast. They have developed certain antibodies that causes an allergic reaction (IgE antibodies) which is why ingestion of food products that contain yeast. Usually, a bacteria called Lactobacillus acidophilus balances out the protein amount produced by yeast in the body. But in this matter, the yeast overpowers the bacteria and becomes more accumulated in the body which results into having allergic symptoms.  Antibodies are then produced to counter the yeast, assuming it to be a harmful foreign body.

People who are allergic to yeast are also more susceptible to having yeast infections such as Candidiasis, than those who do not have the allergy.

Most of the time, yeast allergy symptoms manifest as digestive problems such as abdominal cramping, flatulence, bloating, nausea and vomiting, and indigestion. Some may experience either diarrhea or constipation. Commonly, these symptoms are mistaken for other diseases of the digestive tract which is why allergy to yeast is often overlooked. If you suspect an allergy, one or more of these symptoms should develop after a few minutes or within hours upon yeast consumption or ingestion. They may be accompanied by other symptoms such as the development of hives, itchiness of the skin, fatigues, watery eyes, nasal congestion, sneezing, coughing, and wheezing. Less commonly, a person with yeast allergy may have some degree of swelling in one or more parts of the body due to edema.

Oftentimes, mild symptoms disappear within a day or two when treated with anti-allergy medications like antihistamines.

What Your Doctor Can Do For You

Immediately consult your physician if you suffer from these symptoms so that it won’t have to worsen.  In some unattended cases, the symptoms weaken the immune system and vital organs, causing it to malfunction resulting to further complications.

Currently, there is no known treatment to any allergy. However, drugs may be used to minimize the occurrence of the symptoms.

Antihistamines are the first line of drugs to counter the allergy symptoms. Some doctors may also recommend anti-fungals to clean out the digestive tract of yeast. Because yeast infections are common with patients who have yeast allergies, physicians may also consider treating the present infection.

An individual who has the allergy will also be advised to strictly avoid food and drinks that are added with yeast.

Now, let us discuss what you can do to be relieved from the symptoms, some natural and home remedies to be alleviated from this allergy.

What You Can Do

The most sensible measure is still, like all food allergies, is to AVOID the food that contain yeast.  Here are a number of products that you need to watch out for:

• bagels
• bread
• beer
• bread rolls
• cider
• grape juice
• malt beverages
• MSG
• pretzels
• dough bread
• wine
• cakes
• doughnut
• canned soup
• soy sauce
• some chocolate items

Natural remedies can be done in case of yeast allergy and yeast infection.  Some ointments and anti-fungal creams can help alleviate the symptoms but not necessary prevent recurrence of the infection.  That is why nature’s cure to the allergic symptoms have become popular recently.

• Yogurt is known to help lessen the yeast count inside the digestive tract. It is to be eaten several times daily and is most effective with buttermilk. Garlic can be crushed and applied to the affected part of the skin because of its anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties.

• Tea tree oil  can be applied topically to destroy Candida albicans and cure yeast infections as it has antifungal properties. However, one should use only diluted form for treatment. Use of undiluted tea tree oil proves to be ineffective. Pregnant women are not advised to this type of home remedy. 

• Both white and apple cider vinegar can be used for allergy symptoms. Vinegar can inhibit the growth of fungus and effectively cure the fungal infection. Just mix a small amount of vinegar and water, and soak the infected area of the skin in it. Keep it for about 10 to 15 minutes and repeat the process until the symptoms disappear.

Now you have fair knowledge on how to effectively treat yeast allergy and infection using natural ingredients without having concern on any side-effects.  If you are pregnant however, consulting your physician is the first step to consider before consuming or applying the natural remedies discussed earlier.