Potato Allergies

The potato, or Solanum tuberosum, is part of the solanaceae family, which includes such foods as tomatoes, eggplants, cherries, melons and pears. Potato allergies are relatively rare; however, people who have potato allergies can suffer from a number of symptoms.

Significance

• Potatoes are a staple in many American diets. People eat them baked, mashed and fried. Consequently, potato allergies potentially affect numerous people, especially those with a predisposition toward allergies and those with immunological problems.

Identification

• Potatoes are vegetables and contain alkaloids, proteins and glycoproteins. One of these proteins, called Sol t or patatin, may cause dermatitis or eczema. These allergic skin reactions cause burning and itching.

Effects

• A person can have a more serious allergic reaction to potatoes, including severe diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, a swelling of the throat and asthma.

Considerations

• Those with potato allergies should consider cooking their potatoes. According to Health24.com, many potato allergens will loose their effectiveness when exposed to heat.

Prevention/Solution

• The best way to prevent potato allergy symptoms is to reduce exposure or to avoid them completely. Those with severe potato allergies should consider seeing a doctor specializing in allergies, asthma and immunology.