Citrus Intolerance Guide
Cirtus intolerance guide
Citrus is the combined term used for a genus of flowering trees and shrubs in the rue family (Rutaceae). These plants produce edible
citrus fruits that are eaten fresh after peeling the bitter rind.
Citrus fruits are also commonly juiced and used to complement soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, while the more bitter fruits are used in jams and preserves with sugar to adjust the taste.
Citrus fruits list
- Lemons.
- Limes.
- Oranges.
- Grapefruits.
Citrus intolerance or sensitivity
Citrus intolerance symptoms
- Bloating.
- Diarrhoea.
- Tiredness.
- Heartburn.
- Acid reflux symptoms.
- Gas.
Citrus allergy
However, the allergy is sometimes seen in people who have similar pollen allergies, which is known as cross-reactivity. People who are allergic to grasses in particular, may experience allergy symptoms to citrus fruits.
A 2013 study of 72 children and young adults with grass pollen allergies studied exposure to fresh lemon, orange, and clementine with a prick test. It found that 39 per cent of the participants who were allergic to pollen also had sensitivities to citrus.
Natural vs synthetic citrus allergy
Citric acid intolerance food list
- Pre-cut and packages fruits and vegetables
- Processed sweets
- Beer
- Wine
- Caramel
- Sorbet
- Ice cream
- Baked goods
Citrus allergy symptoms
- Intense tangling and itching of the lips, tongue, and throat
- Reddening and swelling of the face, lips, and gums
- Rash or hives
- Dry, flaky skin
- Abdominal cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Anaphylaxis (rare)
Citrus intolerance nutrition
Citrus foods to avoid
- Raw citrus fruits or juices
- Unripe citrus fruits
- Citrus fruit seeds and rinds
- Vitamin C supplements
- Artificially flavoured sweets
Replacing key nutrients when eliminating citrus
Below are good examples or nutritional alternatives when eliminating citrus:
B Vitamins
Vitamin C
Potassium
Phosphorus
Magnesium
How to diagnose a citrus intolerance or allergy?
- Intolerance test – to find out if you have a citrus intolerance
- Allergy test – to find out if you have a citrus allergy
- Combined test – to test for both allergy and intolerance
You can learn more about how our allergy and intolerance tests work, and find out which one you need here.