When allergy season hits, most of us know to brace ourselves for sneezing fits, itchy eyes, and nonstop nose blowing. But what many people don’t realize is that what you eat can also influence your allergy symptoms—for better or worse.
The Surprising Link Between Food and Seasonal Allergies
If you’ve ever bitten into a fresh apple or eaten a handful of nuts and suddenly felt an itchy mouth or tingling tongue, you’re not imagining things. You might be experiencing food pollen allergy syndrome (also known as oral allergy syndrome). This condition happens because certain raw fruits, vegetables, and nuts share similar proteins with pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds. When your immune system is already on high alert due to seasonal allergies, it can mistake those food proteins as a threat—triggering a reaction.
Common Trigger Foods
People with seasonal allergies—especially to birch, ragweed, or grass pollen—are more likely to experience food pollen allergy syndrome. Here are a few common culprits:
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Unpeeled apples
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Stone fruits like peaches, cherries, and plums
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Nuts, especially hazelnuts and almonds
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Raw vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes
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Melons and bananas, particularly if you’re allergic to ragweed
Symptoms usually include itching or tingling of the lips, mouth, or throat. In some cases, reactions can be more intense—like swelling of the tongue or throat, though severe reactions are rare.
Can cooking help?
The good news? Cooking or peeling these foods often breaks down the allergenic proteins, making them safer to eat. So if you love apples but they leave your mouth feeling itchy, try eating them peeled or baked instead.
Can Food Help Fight Allergies, Too?
Absolutely. While some foods can worsen your symptoms, others may actually help support your immune system and reduce inflammation. Nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory foods—like leafy greens, citrus fruits, omega-3-rich seeds, and probiotic-packed fermented foods—can all play a role in making your body more resilient during allergy season.
Yes—certain foods can make seasonal allergies worse, especially if you’re dealing with food pollen allergy syndrome. But with a little awareness and a few smart swaps (hello, baked apples!), you can reduce your risk of symptoms and even support your body through allergy season.
If you suspect your food might be triggering allergic reactions, it’s worth talking to an allergist. And in the meantime, keeping a food and symptom journal can help you spot patterns and take control of your seasonal wellness.
