What Causes an Allergy to Coffee?

Nov 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

Coffee allergy is mainly caused by factors such as caffeine sensitivity, allergic reactions to proteins in coffee beans, environmental influences, drug interactions, and mold allergies related to coffee. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant, and individuals who are sensitive to caffeine may experience symptoms such as palpitations, anxiety, and insomnia after consumption. These symptoms are, in fact, allergic reactions of the body to caffeine.

Generally, coffee allergy is mainly caused by factors such as caffeine sensitivity, coffee bean protein allergy, environmental factors, drug interactions, and mold allergy in coffee. If discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Caffeine Sensitivity

Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant. Individuals who are sensitive to caffeine may experience symptoms such as palpitations, anxiety, and insomnia after consumption. These reactions are actually allergic responses to caffeine. Avoidance or limitation of coffee and other caffeine-containing products is recommended.

2. Coffee Bean Protein Allergy

Proteins in coffee beans may react with the human immune system, triggering an allergic reaction. This type of allergic reaction is similar to food allergies, in which the immune system mistakenly identifies proteins in coffee beans as harmful substances and produces antibodies to attack them. Avoiding contact with or consumption of coffee and its derivatives is the most effective preventive measure.

3. Environmental Factors

Although environmental factors do not directly cause coffee allergy, conditions such as high temperature, humidity, or pollution may compromise the skin's barrier function, making individuals more susceptible to allergic reactions from external substances like coffee. It is advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to hot, humid, or polluted environments to reduce skin irritation caused by external factors.

4. Drug Interactions

Consumption of coffee while taking certain medications may lead to adverse reactions due to interactions between the medication and coffee's components, potentially triggering or worsening allergic symptoms. Avoid drinking coffee during medication therapy.

5. Coffee Mold Allergy

Coffee beans are prone to mold growth in humid environments. Individuals allergic to mold spores may experience allergic reactions after consuming coffee contaminated with mold, which may manifest as sneezing, runny nose, and other symptoms. Treatment may require antihistamine medications such as loratadine tablets, cetirizine tablets, or ebastine tablets, as directed by a physician.

Maintaining adequate hydration in daily life can help alleviate dehydration symptoms caused by allergic reactions.

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