If you experience specific symptoms after consuming or coming into contact with garlic, you might be allergic to it. Although garlic allergy is rare, its symptoms can be bothersome or even dangerous.
1. Allergic Dermatitis (Skin Allergy)
One of the most common symptoms is skin inflammation and irritation from contact with raw garlic. Common signs include:
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Hives
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Itching and skin redness
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Swelling and blisters
In severe cases, these symptoms may appear even when wearing gloves.
2. Respiratory Symptoms and Asthma
Some people may experience shortness of breath, wheezing, or rapid, shallow breathing after exposure to garlic or its smell. These may occur alongside other allergic symptoms.
3. Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Consuming garlic when allergic may lead to digestive issues such as:
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Stomach cramps
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Diarrhea or vomiting
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Abdominal pain and bloating
4. Itching in the Mouth and Lips
Some individuals immediately feel tingling, burning, or itching in their lips, tongue, or throat after eating garlic.
Garlic Allergy or Intolerance?
Some people have a food intolerance to garlic rather than a true allergy. The difference lies in the severity—intolerance usually only causes bloating, mild stomach discomfort, or gas, without involving the immune system.
What Should You Do?
If you suspect a garlic allergy:
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Consult a doctor or allergist for a skin or blood test.
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Follow an elimination diet if advised.
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In severe cases, always carry an epinephrine (EpiPen) injector.
What Foods Should You Avoid?
People with garlic allergy are often advised to avoid other members of the allium family, including:
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Onions
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Leeks
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Shallots
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Scallions (green onions)
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Chives
Also, read ingredient labels carefully on packaged foods like soups, sauces, or spice blends.
Garlic-Free Flavor Alternatives
If you can't consume garlic, try these substitutes for flavoring:
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Spices such as cumin, turmeric, thyme, black pepper, and paprika
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Celery root or the white part of green onions
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Lemon juice or vinegar for marinades
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Asafoetida (hing), commonly used in Eastern cuisine and similar in flavor to garlic
If You're Allergic to Garlic, Will You Be Allergic to Onions Too?
In many cases, yes. Since both belong to the allium family, they share similar compounds that can trigger reactions.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of the following after garlic exposure:
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Swelling of the tongue or throat
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Difficulty breathing or swallowing
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Dizziness or severe weakness
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Widespread hives or anaphylaxis
Take Your Food Safety Seriously!
By registering with SFBBCERT and familiarizing yourself with SFBB standard guidelines, you can stay informed about the safety of food products and contaminant levels. SFBBCERT helps ensure the food you consume is safe and trustworthy.
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