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CORN ALLERGY


WHAT IS A CORN ALLERGY?
 

A corn allergy is having an immune response to corn or its products. The main culprit of these symptoms is a protein called zein. Zein is a protein in corn that can trigger a corn allergy reaction.

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Corn comes in a variety of forms, which makes corn allergies hard to find without proper knowledge. These forms include oil, flour, and cornstarch. Some refined corn oils may not contain zein and are safe to consume; however, it is important to consult an allergist beforehand and exercise extreme caution. Processed foods also contain corn. Dr. Tamayev understands the difficulties faced living with a corn allergy and are here to help diagnose and treat your condition.


CORN ALLERGY SYMPTOMS
 

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Most symptoms of corn allergy are mild. Patients will feel a slight discomfort that will usually subside in a couple of hours. While it is rare for corn allergies to cause severe allergic reactions, anaphylaxis can occur. It’s important to get your corn allergy or sensitivity diagnosed early to prevent an allergic reaction.


CORN ALLERGY DIAGNOSIS
 

Corn allergies are hard to diagnose without a food challenge or elimination diet. A food challenge requires you to eat corn to see if it evokes a reaction. This should be done in a clinical setting. Contact Dr. Tamayev to set up your food challenge.

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An elimination diet requires you to remove corn from your diet for at least two weeks. During this time, it’s helpful to keep a food journal documenting the foods you eat and any symptoms you experience. If you don’t experience symptoms after eliminating corn from your diet, it’s likely that corn was the cause of your allergic reaction.


CORN ALLERGY TREATMENT
 

Avoiding corn is the best way to make sure you don’t experience an allergic reaction. Dr. T has provided a corn allergy food list that you may need to avoid, as well as a list of corn-free foods that you can enjoy.

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If avoidance isn’t possible, you can treat your mild symptoms with antihistamines. Dr. Tamayev will determine which medications will best soothe your symptoms. He may also suggest an EpiPen or AUVI-Q if you have a more severe condition. You should carry it with you in case an allergic reaction to corn arises.


CORN ALLERGY FOODS TO AVOID
 

  • Alcohol

  • Ale/Beer

  • Bacon

  • Baking Mixes

  • Bologna

  • Bread

  • Certain Jams

  • Certain Soups

  • Cookies

  • Cornflakes

  • Crackers

  • Grits

  • Gum Preserves

  • Ice cream

  • Peanut Butter

  • Popcorn

  • Powdered Sugar

  • Pudding

  • Salad Dressing

  • Sausage

  • Tortillas


FOODS THAT ARE CORN FREE
 

  • 100% Fruit Juice

  • 100% Rolled Oats

  • All Natural Meats

  • Beans

  • Certain Pancakes

  • Chocolate Chips

  • Cocoa

  • Dried Fruit Snacks

  • Eggs

  • Flour

  • Locally Produced Honey

  • Mixed Nuts

  • Pitas

  • Plain Yogurt

  • Quinoa

  • Rice

  • Rice Bread

  • Unprocessed Cheese

  • ​Wheat

  • Wheat Bread

  • Wheat-based Pasta


CORN ALLERGY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
 

If I’m allergic to corn, can I still have high fructose corn syrup?

High fructose corn syrup doesn’t contain much zein, so it may be safe to eat for some people. However, you should consult with Dr. T before consuming it.

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Can allergic patients eat meat from animals that were corn-fed?

Individuals that are really sensitive to corn may have an allergic reaction from corn-fed animals. If you’re allergic to corn, it’s best to avoid these types of meat.

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Does corn cross-react with pollen?

There have been many cases in which individuals allergic to pollen have also reacted to corn.

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Who is at risk of developing a corn allergy?

Individuals who suffer from asthma or eczema are most at risk of developing a corn allergy.

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Is Corn Allergy Curable?

Corn allergy can’t be cured, so you’ll need to avoid corn. You may also need medications to treat symptoms when they arise. It’s helpful to carry antihistamines with you at all times.

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Why Are People Allergic to Corn?

Most people are allergic to zein, the protein in corn. There have also been studies showing a relationship between pollen and corn. This means that individuals with a pollen allergy are more likely to be allergic to corn.

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Can I Be Allergic to Corn?

Anyone can be allergic to corn but if you suffer from asthma or eczema, you have a higher chance of developing the allergy. Contact Dr. Tamayev for an allergy test.

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How Is Corn Allergy Treated?

Corn allergy symptoms can be treated with antihistamines or epinephrine. Train family members and friends how to administer epinephrine in the event of a severe allergic reaction.

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How Is Corn Allergy Diagnosed?

Dr. Tamayev can diagnose your allergy with corn allergy testing. A Food Challenge is the most common method of diagnosing a corn allergy.


SUMMARY
 

For corn allergy treatment or questions, call Dr. Tamayev. Dr. T has access to the latest testing and treatment, and sees pediatric and adult patients from all over New York City. Dr. T wants to help! Use the book button below to schedule an appointment today!

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