Omega-5-gliadin and wheat allergy

What is omega-5-gliadin?

Omega-5-gliadin, Tri a 19, is one of the proteins in wheat gluten. IgE to omega-5-gliadin is strongly linked to allergic reactions that only occur when wheat is combined with something else – most often physical exertion. The condition is called exercise-induced wheat allergy.

Exercise-induced wheat allergy

People with exercise-induced wheat allergy can often eat wheat without problems in everyday life. But if they train, run or exert themselves within a few hours of a meal containing wheat, they can get hives, swelling, a drop in blood pressure and, at worst, anaphylaxis. Alcohol, painkillers such as ibuprofen and aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), infections and lack of sleep can also help trigger a reaction.

In children, IgE to omega-5-gliadin can also be linked to severe reactions without exertion.

Symptoms

• Hives and itching
• Swelling of the face and throat
• Dizziness and a drop in blood pressure
• Breathing difficulties
• Anaphylaxis

Call 112 in case of breathing difficulties, swelling in the throat or if the person seems very unwell.

How to get tested

Omega-5-gliadin (allergen code f416) is included in our Wheat and gluten allergy Plus test, together with wheat and gliadin. If you have had an allergic reaction during exercise or exertion, you should be assessed by a doctor, even if the test is negative.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I only react when I exercise?

Exertion, as well as alcohol and certain painkillers, is thought to cause more of the wheat protein to be absorbed from the gut into the blood. The reaction can then become strong enough to cause symptoms.

Can exercise-induced allergy be caused by other foods?

Yes, but wheat is the most common cause. Similar reactions have been described after eating shellfish and certain fruits, among other foods.