Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS)
What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?
Alpha-gal syndrome is a food allergy to red meat and other products made from mammals (beef, pork, lamb, venison, rabbit, goat, buffalo, etc.).
It is triggered by a sugar molecule called alpha-gal, which can enter the body through certain tick bites—most commonly the Lone Star tick in the United States (also associated with the blacklegged tick and western blacklegged tick in the United States).
How Alpha-Gal Syndrome Develops
- Tick Bite → The tick carries alpha-gal from animal blood.
- Immune Response → Your immune system reacts and makes antibodies to alpha-gal.
- Allergic Reactions → Later, when you eat mammalian meat or certain animal-derived products, your immune system releases histamine and other chemicals, causing symptoms.
Common Symptoms
- Delayed reaction: Often appear 2–6 hours after eating red meat or dairy, but can occur immediately after exposure in some cases
- Hives, itching, swelling, flushing
- Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, cough
- Drop in blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations
- Anaphylaxis – potentially life-threatening; call 911 or seek immediate emergency care if this occurs
Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening and may vary with each exposure.
Diagnosis
- Medical history of delayed allergic reactions after eating red meat or mammal-derived foods
- Blood test for alpha-gal–specific IgE antibodies
- Sometimes a skin prick test
Foods and Products to Avoid
- Beef, pork, lamb, venison, rabbit, buffalo, goat, and products made from these meats (broths, gravies, sausage casings)
- Mammal-derived gelatin (gummy candies, marshmallows, some capsules)
- Some dairy products (cream, whole milk, soft cheeses) if sensitive
- Animal-derived additives (lard, beef tallow)
- Personal care products made with meat: lanolin, collagen, glycerin, gelatin
- Some medications, surgical products, or vaccines containing gelatin or animal ingredients—check with your healthcare provider
Foods Generally Safe
- Chicken
- Fish and seafood
- Eggs
- Fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds
- Plant-based milks and dairy alternatives
Note: Always check with your healthcare provider first to determine if a specific food is considered safe for you. Ask your healthcare provider for a list of foods to avoid and “safe” foods.
Living with Alpha-Gal Syndrome
- Avoid trigger foods and ingredients—read labels carefully.
- Prevent tick bites: use repellents, wear long sleeves/pants outdoors, check your skin and clothing after being in grassy or wooded areas.
- Carry epinephrine (auto-injector) if prescribed for severe reactions.
- Inform healthcare providers (including dentists, pharmacists, surgeons, etc.) about your allergy—some medications and surgical products contain mammal ingredients.
- Stay in touch with your allergist for follow-up and re-testing.
Practical Tips
- Prepare and pack safe foods when traveling or eating out.
- Ask restaurants about broths, stocks, and cooking oils used.
- Share your allergy information with family, friends, and caregivers.
Key Takeaways
- Alpha-gal syndrome is a delayed red meat allergy caused by a tick bite.
- Avoiding mammal products and preventing future tick bites are the best ways to prevent reactions.
- Carry emergency medication if prescribed and seek immediate help if you experience severe symptoms.
Sources:
- https://www.uptodate.com/contents/alpha-gal-syndrome-the-basics?search=alpha%20gal&source=search_result&selectedTitle=2~57&usage_type=default&display_rank=2
- https://www.cdc.gov/alpha-gal-syndrome/about/index.html
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24493-alpha-gal-syndrome
This content was created with the assistance of AI. Any AI-generated content was reviewed by a Nurse Practitioner.