May is recognized as Food Allergy Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness about the impact of food allergies on individuals and their families. While there are many types of food allergies, one type that has gained attention in recent years is Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS).
Common Food Allergies
The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) designates eight major food allergens, but sesame was added as the ninth major food allergen in April 2021. The FDA enforces the FALCPA for most foods, which requires clear labeling of any ingredients containing protein from the eight major food allergens, or if the ingredient itself is one of the eight major food allergens. As sesame is a new addition, some food products may not yet list it as an allergen. Therefore, it's essential to remain informed during the transition period to avoid any allergic reactions. It's worth noting that there are currently no specific regulations or labeling requirements for alpha-gal allergy.
Alpha-Gal Syndrome
Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), or alpha-gal allergy, is a serious allergic reaction to products containing the sugar molecule, alpha-gal. This molecule is found in the meat of mammals such as cows, pigs, and sheep, as well as in some dairy products.
What sets alpha-gal syndrome apart from other food allergies is that the reaction is delayed, meaning symptoms may not appear for several hours after consuming the trigger food. This can make it difficult for people with AGS to pinpoint the cause of their symptoms.
Resource for Alpha-Gal Patients
While there is no cure for alpha-gal syndrome, there are ways to manage the allergy as well as many available resources to AGS patients who want to find out more information regarding products they consume and learn more about their diagnosis.
Websites with Alpha-Gal Information
Resource | About |
This website is being created by people with alpha-gal syndrome in order to:
| |
We’re using our journey with alpha-gal syndrome to seek new and exciting ways to live with our diagnosis without sacrificing joy. | |
The tips, tricks, and tools at Sage Alpha Gal are created by a fellow “alpha gal” to help you live (and thrive) with alpha-gal syndrome. | |
Our mission is to create a kinder world where medications and other health products are animal-free. We do this by 1) being the go-to source for consumers to find (for free) animal-free (AF) health products and 2) certifying animal-free health products with our AF certificate program. | |
Tick-Borne Conditions United is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) corporation devoted to the identification, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of tick-borne diseases. We offer timely, science-based research, guidance, education, and training for individuals, teams, and organizations. | |
FARE enhances the lives of individuals with food allergies empowering them to lead safe, productive lives with the respect of others through education and advocacy initiatives and improved awareness around healthcare options and treatment. | |
CDC is the nation’s leading science-based, data-driven, service organization that protects the public’s health. |
Alpha-Gal Facebook Groups
Group Name | About |
Alpha Gal Support Non-Public | A safe place to discuss all things Alpha-Gal. The good, the bad and the ugly. |
Alpha-gal Syndrome | TBCU is a nonprofit dedicated to providing education, awareness, research and advocacy for the lesser known tick-borne conditions, including Lyme Disease. |
Alpha-gal Information: Evidence-Based Support | A support group for people with alpha-gal syndrome who want fact-checked, evidence-based information. Created and managed by the creator of the Alpha-gal Information website. |
Alpha-Gal (closed for privacy) | Formed in 2011, this is the world's first alpha-gal allergy support group on Facebook. As a community for people living with alpha-gal allergy, we aim to provide a safe place to share experiences while supporting each other on our alpha-gal journey. |
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome & Tick-Borne Disease (Alpha-gal, Lyme, RMSF) | This group is open to any and all who are affected by or would like to learn and bring awareness to Mast Cell and/or Tick-Borne Diseases (along with other issues caused by these disorders). |
Living With Oral Allergy Syndrome | Support group and education center for those who suffer from this commonly misunderstood and misdiagnosed condition. |
Eczema & Allergies Support Australia | This is a group designed for people who suffer from Eczema, Psoriasis, Food Intolerance, Allergies and its related causes in Australia. |
Alpha-gal NOW | Alpha-gal NOW is dedicated to demystifying food labeling and providing deeper insight into the food industry. We will provide up to minute food legislation, policy, research and FDA undeclared allergen alerts. |
Alpha-Gal Friendly Food | Alpha-Gal Friendly Food is a group to share recipes and for discussions of food that is available from supermarkets, major food outlets and restaurants. |
Allergy and Asthma group - Information and support! | This group is a place to talk about allergy issues! We would like to create a community where we can share experiences with one another and learn. We provide quick solutions and remedies. |
Alpha-gal Safe Foods & Products | This was started to keep track of everything that is safe to eat in my house. Alpha-gal safe foods that didn't cause a reaction. Most items will be dairy free and gluten free. |
Alpha-gal Allergy NE OK | This group was created to spread awareness about alpha gal allergy and give support to those in Northeast Oklahoma. |
Alpha Gal Encouragers - NW Arkansas | We are a Non-Profit Advocacy, Support and Outreach group with a Christian perspective & vision that serves those diagnosed with Alpha Gal Syndrome, their families, friends and advocates. |
Alpha-Gal Women’s group: Products we can use with our allergies! | I’m a private consultant for Jordan Essentials that has Alpha Gal. It’s so important with Alpha-Gal to find the right things to use, let’s come together to share! |
Total Vegan Living With Alpha Gal | This group is about promoting a vegan lifestyle - food, drink, clothing, accessories, cleaning, and other products. |
Alpha Gal Information in Southwest Missouri | This is an informational group page for people with Alpha-Gal or loved ones with Alpha-Gal that have interests in the Southwest Missouri area. This page is not limited to people that live specifically in the region. |
Alpha-Gal Awareness in Missouri | Alpha-Gal Awareness in Missouri has been created to share awareness of alpha-gal allergy caused by tick bites in communities in the state of Missouri. |
Alpha-gal Lifestyle | Lifestyle tips, foods, personal care products and more for people with alpha-gal syndrome. |
Alpha-Gal Only | Discuss all things related to Alpha-Gal Syndrome, all other health concerns outside Alpha-Gal (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome, Celiac's Disease, Gluten allergies, etc) will not be addressed. |
Alpha-gal Educators | We welcome all educators, from Administrators, to teachers, to School Nutrition Professionals or Operations and Maintenance. |
Severe Allergies/Sinus issues/ Celiac Disease and/Asthma Support Group | This is a group for those who suffer from severe allergies or Asthma, or have Celiac Disease. |
*Please note that the above lists are not exhaustive and there may be other alpha-gal friendly resources that are not included.
Conclusion
Food allergies can extend beyond the foods we eat and also impact the medications and health products we consume. It's crucial to stay vigilant and informed about the ingredients in these products, especially for individuals with allergies such as alpha-gal syndrome. At VeganMed, we are committed to providing options for consumers seeking animal-free health products. Our free services can help alpha-gal patients research medications and health products to determine if they are safe to use. Remember, always check the labels and ingredients, and never hesitate to reach out for help. Contact us today to learn more and take control of your health!
Disclaimer: The product and/or information provided on VeganMed is of a general nature and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not lab test the products to confirm that they are free from animal ingredients, and it is possible that the formulation and ingredients could have changed. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or product.
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Thank you for your awareness and concern for animal-derived ingredients!
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