Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) is a recently recognized type of food allergy that is both unusual and complex. Unlike most food allergies, which are triggered by specific proteins found in foods like peanuts or shellfish, AGS is triggered by a carbohydrate molecule known as galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-gal). This carbohydrate is found in many mammals, so eating their meat can cause reactions.
How can you get alpha-gal?
What makes AGS particularly unique is its association with tick bites, specifically from the Lone Star tick. When a person is bitten by this tick, the saliva may introduce alpha-gal into their bloodstream, sensitizing their immune system. As a result, the next time the person consumes red meat or other related products containing alpha-gal, their immune system may overreact, leading to an allergic response.
What does alpha-gal look like?
Symptoms of AGS can occur several hours after consuming red meat, which separates it from most other food allergies that cause immediate reactions. These symptoms can range from mild, such as hives and gastrointestinal issues, to severe, including anaphylaxis—a life-threatening reaction that requires emergency treatment. Managing AGS involves strict avoidance of red meat and careful monitoring of other foods or products that may contain it.
Because AGS is a relatively new and emerging condition, awareness is still growing, and ongoing research aims to better understand its mechanisms and improve diagnosis and treatment.
