This week we had the opportunity
to help a child who was recently diagnosed with a corn allergy. The irony is
that the allergy medication that is best suited for him contains…. you guessed
it—corn products! We were able to
compound medication in a corn-free liquid in the exact dose suitable for
this 2 year old.
In order to ensure his
medication was completely free of corn and corn derivatives, we researched each
ingredient, even the flavorings, to make sure they were not derived from corn or
used any corn products in their manufacturing process. In the end, we learned
quite a bit and we were able to provide relief for our patient and peace of
mind for his family. We will continue to
work closely with him and his health care providers as he grows and
his medication needs change.
Corn allergy is the
inability to fully digest the corn protein zein. It is an enormous protein -
like other grain proteins including gluten from wheat, rye and others. Some people do not have the biological equipment to break down these proteins in the
digestive tract. So the semi-broken down molecules end up in the small
intestine and disrupt the digestive process. In some cases they actually damage
the lining of the gut.
Although not well
understood, corn allergy is becoming increasingly noticeable. Unfortunately,
diagnosing a corn allergy can be difficult because the symptoms are just the
same as other intolerances - so differentiating is difficult without a food
journal.
Corn and corn derivatives
find their way into thousands of processed foods, supplements and medications.
People with corn allergy even react to the maize used as a filler in many
medications. Corn products may even be in many foods you would not suspect, like
confectioner’s sugar (a small amount - 2% - of cornstarch is added to powdered
sugar to keep it from clumping).
Reading food labels can
help, but is tricky. Corn derivatives often go by other names, such as:
·
caramel and
caramel color
·
dextrose
·
dextrin
·
fructose
·
malt syrup
·
modified food
starch and vinegar
·
Baking powder
·
Maltodextrins,
Sorbitol, Mannitol
Visit the AllergicChildwebsite to learn more about corn allergies, other food allergies, and keeping a
food journal.
