Lentil Allergy
Treatment & Testing
Lentil Allergy Treatment in NYC, Manhattan, Upper East Side
Lentils are a staple in many diets, particularly in vegetarian and vegan dishes. Dr. Atul Shah and his team at NY Food Allergy & Wellness specialize in diagnosing and treating lentil allergies, providing tailored care to patients with allergies to this common legume. Our experience at NYFA is that many South Asian origin patients with regular lentil allergy have associated Indian Lentils (Dals) allergies. There are many varient of Indian Lentils and their allergy needs to be identified based on history or specific tests. These Dals include Chana Dal, Toovar Dal, Masoor Dal, Urad Dal, etc.
Understanding Lentil Allergies
A lentil allergy is triggered by an immune response to proteins in lentils. Similar to other legumes, lentils can cause reactions that range from mild to severe. Given lentils’ prominence in many health-conscious diets, it’s crucial for those with allergies to have a clear diagnosis and a plan for safe management. Lentils belong to the legume family, so those with lentil allergies may also react to other legumes.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Lentil Allergies
Symptoms of lentil allergies may include:
Skin Reactions: Rashes, itching, hives
Respiratory Issues: Shortness of breath, wheezing, nasal congestion
Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea
Anaphylaxis: A severe, life-threatening reaction
Food Allergy
Testing for Lentils
Source: Lincoln Diagnostics
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Skin prick tests are a quick and effective way to identify specific allergens. During the test, a small amount of allergen is placed on the skin, which is then gently pricked to allow the allergen to enter. Results are typically visible within 15-20 minutes, making it a fast and reliable option. Needle-free tests are ideal for children and needle-phobic patients. Using advanced technology, these tests provide precise results without the discomfort associated with traditional testing methods.
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Blood tests are highly accurate and comprehensive, suitable for all age groups. They measure the presence of specific IgE antibodies in the blood, which can indicate an allergy. This method is particularly useful for patients who cannot undergo skin testing.
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At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, we are proud to offer the Basophil Activation Test (BAT), a cutting-edge diagnostic tool for identifying food allergies. This advanced test measures the activation of basophils, a type of white blood cell, in response to allergens. The BAT provides highly accurate results and can detect allergic reactions that might not be identified through traditional testing methods.
We are the only certified lab in the region offering the Basophil Activation Test. Our certification ensures that we maintain the highest standards of accuracy and reliability in our testing procedures. By choosing NY Food Allergy & Wellness for your allergy testing needs, you can be confident that you are receiving the most advanced and reliable diagnostics available. In the absence of relaible commercial antigens or antibodies, at times, our team develops new tests for uncommon allergens. At times, technical challenges may not allow us to do BAT for every uncommon food.
The Basophil Activation Test is particularly useful for patients who have complex allergy profiles or who have not found answers through conventional tests. It can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of ongoing allergy treatments, providing valuable insights for personalized care plans.
Key benefits of the Basophil Activation Test include:
High Accuracy: Detects allergic reactions that may not be visible through skin prick or blood tests.
Comprehensive Analysis: Measures the specific activation of basophils, providing detailed information about allergic responses.
Certified Lab: Conducted in our certified lab, ensuring the highest standards of testing quality and reliability.
If you suspect you have a food allergy and need precise and reliable testing, the Basophil Activation Test at NY Food Allergy & Wellness is an excellent choice. Contact us today to learn more about this innovative test and to schedule your appointment. -
Oral Food Challenges are considered the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies. During an OFC, the patient consumes small amounts of the suspected allergen under strict medical supervision to observe any reactions. This method provides definitive results and is conducted with the utmost care and safety.
Source: Lincoln Diagnostics
The FATE™ Program
Food Allergy Tolerance Enhancement
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Sublingual or Oral
Immunotherapy
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Understanding the FATE™ Program with Dr. Atul Shah
Dr. Atul Shah explains key components of the FATE™ program in a series of videos, including topics like "What is an Allergy?", "What is the Oral Food Challenge?", and "What is Oral Immunotherapy?". These videos provide essential insights into advanced food allergy treatments available in NYC, emphasizing the expertise of Dr. Shah and the comprehensive care offered at the Upper East Side clinic. This positions the clinic as a leading choice for anyone seeking a food allergist in NYC.
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BASOPHIL
ACTIVATION TEST
The Basophil Activation Test (BAT) is a blood test that measures the activation of basophils, a type of white blood cell, in response to specific allergens. This test is particularly useful in diagnosing food allergies.
Process: In BAT, basophils are isolated from a blood sample and exposed to potential allergens. If the patient is allergic to a specific substance, the basophils will activate, which is detected using flow cytometry.
Advantages: This test is highly sensitive and can help in cases where traditional skin or blood tests are inconclusive. It also poses minimal risk to the patient, as it is performed in vitro (outside the body).
NYAIRL & NYFA Connection: NYAIRL, associated with NY Food Allergy & Wellness (NYFA), is a leading research facility and the first and only laboratory in New York State with a CLIA-certified facility to offer BAT. This state-approved service places NYFA at the forefront of allergy research and treatment, ensuring highly accurate and risk-minimized diagnostic services for food allergies.
ORAL FOOD CHALLENGE
OFC is a medically supervised test to diagnose food allergies. It's considered the gold standard for allergy testing.
Process: During an OFC, the patient consumes gradually increasing amounts of the suspected allergenic food in a controlled setting. Medical staff monitor for any reaction.
Purpose: It's used to either confirm a food allergy diagnosis or to check if a patient has outgrown an allergy.
Safety: Given the risk of an allergic reaction, OFCs are always conducted in a clinical setting with emergency response capabilities.
SUBLINGUAL IMMUNOTHERAPY
SLIT is a form of immunotherapy where the patient is given small doses of an allergen under the tongue to boost tolerance to the substance and reduce symptoms.
Process: The treatment involves administering gradually increasing amounts of the allergen in liquid or tablet form under the tongue. The patient holds it there for a few minutes before swallowing.
Purpose: SLIT is primarily used for treating allergic rhinitis and asthma, and it's being explored for food allergies. It's a convenient alternative to allergy shots, as it can be self-administered at home.
Duration: Treatment typically spans over a few years, with the initial phase of dose escalation followed by a maintenance phase.
ORAL IMMUNOTHERAPY
OIT is a medical treatment for food allergies where the patient consumes small amounts of the allergenic food, with the amount gradually increased over time.
Process: The process begins with extremely low doses, followed by periodic and gradual increases, usually under strict medical supervision. This is continued until a maintenance dose is reached.
Objective: The goal of OIT is to desensitize the patient to the allergen, reducing the severity of reactions or helping them achieve tolerance.
Foods Treated: Commonly used for allergies to foods like peanuts, milk, eggs, and tree nuts.
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Dr. Atul Shah: Changing Lives through Food Allergy Desensitization
Dr. Atul Shah is the esteemed founder of NY Food Allergy & Wellness near The Upper East Side of Manhattan, known for his exceptional work in treating food allergies. His expertise is recognized with prestigious accolades, such as the Patients’ Choice Award, Top M.D. Accolades, and America’s Top Physician. As an innovator, Dr. Shah has expanded access to food allergy care globally through the Global Food Initiative, using advanced technology.
Expanding the Horizons
of Food Allergy Care
From his medical beginnings in India to his establishment of New York Food Allergy & Wellness on Long Island, Dr. Shah’s career has been a journey of impact and innovation. In 2023, he expanded his practice to Park Sixty, NYC, setting a benchmark for food allergy care with the introduction of groundbreaking treatments and patient-centered services.
About Dr. Atul Shah: Testimonials
Dr. Atul Shah Interview with Donna Drake
Food Allergy Success Story: Cameron
Managing Lentil Allergies in Daily Life
Managing a lentil allergy involves avoiding lentils in various forms, from whole lentils to lentil flour.
Reading Food Labels: Lentils can appear as ingredients in many vegetarian foods.
Identifying Hidden Sources: Found in soups, veggie patties, and protein powders.
Dining Out: Alert restaurant staff about the allergy and ask about lentil-based ingredients.
Emergency Preparedness: Carrying epinephrine is crucial for those with severe lentil allergies.
Common Foods Containing Lentils:
Lentil soup
Vegetarian patties
Some pasta alternatives
Managing Multiple Food Allergies
Achieving food allergy freedom, especially with multiple food allergies, is challenging but possible with the right care. At NY Food Allergy & Wellness, we specialize in comprehensive management and treatment to help patients achieve food allergy desensitization.
Diagnostic Approach
We begin with:
Detailed Patient History: Reviewing the patient’s medical history and symptoms.
Advanced Testing: Utilizing skin prick tests, blood tests, and the Basophil Activation Test to identify specific allergens and assess reaction severity.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Our customized plans aim for food allergy desensitization and may include:
Oral Immunotherapy (OIT): Gradually introducing allergens to desensitize the immune system.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT): Administering allergens under the tongue to build tolerance.
Medications: Antihistamines can relieve mild symptoms, while epinephrine is used for severe reactions like anaphylaxis. Omalizumab (Xolair) injections can be considered to reduce the risk or reactions.
Dietary Management: Guidance on safe food choices and avoidance strategies.
Emergency Preparedness: Training on using epinephrine auto-injectors and creating action plans for accidental exposures.
Continuous Support
Regular Follow-ups: Monitoring progress and adjusting treatment plans.
Patient Education: Providing resources and training for effective management.
Support Groups: Facilitating patient support groups for shared experiences and strategies.
Why Choose
NYFA?
Personalized Treatment Plans:
NYFA offers individualized care with personalized OIT, SLIT, BAT, and OFC treatments, ensuring each patient's unique needs are met for effective food allergy desensitization.
15,000 Success Stories:
With over 15,000 success stories, NYFA demonstrates a track record of helping patients achieve "Food Allergy Freedom," showcasing a high level of expertise and reliability.
Innovative FATE™ Program:
Our exclusive Food Allergy Tolerance Enhancement (FATE™) program guides patients to new beginnings, blending cutting-edge treatments with a holistic approach to food allergy management.
Experienced Leadership:
Under the leadership of Dr. Atul Shah, an award winning pioneer in food allergy treatment, NYFA offers expertise and dedication to advancing allergy care.
State-of-the-Art Facilities:
Equipped with the latest technology and modern facilities, NYFA creates a safe, luxurious, and comfortable environment for top of the line food allergy treatments.
Community and Advocacy:
NYFA is deeply involved in the food allergy community, advocating for awareness and providing resources to empower patients in their journey towards desensitization.
Upper East Side Location:
Award Winning Food Allergist in NYC
NYC Location
110 East 60th St.
Suite 708
New York, NY, 10022
Hours of Operation
Tuesday: 9am-5pm
Wednesday: 9am-5pm
Thursday: 9am-7pm
Friday: 9am-5pm
Saturday: 9am-2pm
Sunday/Monday: Closed
Locations We Serve
We proudly serve the following locations in NYC:
Manhattan, Upper East Side, Queens
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Midtown, SOHO, NOHO, Upper West Side
Central Park South, Sutton Place, Westchester, Upstate NY, Connecticut, New Jersey
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of lentil allergy?
Symptoms of lentil allergy include skin reactions like rashes, itching, and hives; respiratory issues such as shortness of breath and wheezing; gastrointestinal symptoms like abdominal pain and nausea; and in severe cases, anaphylaxis, which requires immediate medical attention.
What foods to avoid if you are allergic to lentils?
Avoid foods containing lentils, including lentil soup, vegetarian patties, and pasta alternatives. Lentils may also be used as thickening agents or protein substitutes in certain foods. (Source: Food Allergy Research & Education). At NYFA, we recommend checking for allergies to other legumes like chickpeas and for South Asian Lentils (Dals), if history is suggestive of the need.
How common is lentil allergy?
Lentil allergy is relatively common in some Mediterranean and Asian regions, where lentils are dietary staples. However, it’s less common in the United States, although cases are rising with increased lentil consumption in plant-based diets. (Source: American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology)
What foods are high in lentils?
Foods high in lentils include lentil soup, salads, pasta alternatives, and vegetarian or vegan protein substitutes. Lentil flour is also used in gluten-free baking. (Source: American Academy of Pediatrics)
What foods is lentil hidden in?
Lentils can be hidden in vegetarian foods, certain processed soups, and baked goods that use lentil flour. It’s essential to read ingredient labels closely. (Source: Food Allergy Research & Education)
What is the Best Treatment for Lentil Allergies?
The best treatment for lentil allergies includes avoidance, emergency preparedness, and desensitization therapies like SLIT and OIT. NY Food Allergy & Wellness offers tailored options through the FATE™ Program to gradually desensitize patients to lentils, helping manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
How Successful is Lentil Allergy Treatment?
Desensitization therapies such as OIT and SLIT have shown success in building tolerance to lentils, significantly reducing the risk of severe reactions. Through our FATE™ Program, NY Food Allergy & Wellness has helped many patients safely increase their tolerance to lentils and enjoy greater dietary freedom.
Why Choose NY Food Allergy & Wellness for Lentil Allergy Treatment?
Choose NY Food Allergy & Wellness for lentil allergy treatment because of our:
Specialized Expertise: Dr. Atul Shah is a recognized authority in the treatment of food allergies, including Lentils.
Advanced Therapies: Utilizing the latest treatment options like Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) to manage Lentil allergies.
Comprehensive Care Approach: Individualized care plans and ongoing support for effective allergy management.
Cutting-Edge Facilities: Our clinic is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment to deliver accurate and comprehensive testing.
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Food Allergy Success Videos
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Food Allergy Team
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