Kiwi tingles in the mouth: Dr. Itai Gal explains the signs of an allergic reaction

The fruit contains an enzyme called actinidin, which is able to break down proteins. This enzyme contributes to the feeling of softness and uniqueness of the fruit, and is even used to soften food in industry and in the kitchen. In the oral cavity, in sensitive people, it may cause a tingling or burning sensation. Kiwi also has other components, including tiny calcium oxalate crystals in part of the plant structure, which may contribute to local irritation.

But the main story from a medical point of view is allergy. Kiwi is known to cause food allergy, especially in children and people with other allergies. The reaction can be local only: itching in the mouth, tingling in the lips, slight swelling of the tongue or palate. This condition is sometimes associated with oral allergy syndrome, in which the immune system recognizes proteins in the fruit as similar to proteins in pollen or latex.

In other cases, the response may be more systemic. A widespread rash, abdominal pain, vomiting, wheezing, coughing, significant swelling of the lips or tongue, difficulty swallowing or a feeling of suffocation are signs that do not belong to “normal acidity”. Such a reaction requires a medical evaluation, and sometimes an allergological investigation.

In children, it is especially important not to underestimate. A child who says “my mouth burns” after a kiwi does not always know how to describe itching, swelling or a feeling of suffocation. If the reaction comes back every time he eats kiwi, don’t keep trying again and again at home. Contact the pediatrician, and if necessary, a pediatric allergist. Until the clarification, it is better to avoid the fruit.

People with a latex allergy may also be more sensitive to kiwi, banana, avocado and other fruits, due to similarities between certain proteins. Not everyone who is allergic to latex will react to kiwi, and not everyone who reacts to kiwi is allergic to latex, but the connection is known enough to ask about it with a medical clarification.

It is important to distinguish between mild discomfort and a dangerous reaction. A mild burning that goes away quickly and without swelling, rash or other symptoms may just be an irritation. But if there is an aggravation, a repeated reaction, involvement of breathing or the digestive system, or a need for drug treatment, it should not be treated as something that “needs to get used to”.

Those diagnosed with a significant kiwi allergy should receive clear instructions from their doctor, including whether they should carry an adrenaline injector. Those who experience a severe reaction after eating kiwi should seek urgent medical help. In case of shortness of breath, swelling of the throat, extreme weakness or fainting, do not wait.

Kiwi is not a dangerous fruit for the general public. It is simply a fruit with an allergenic potential that needs to be known. If it tastes good to you and does not cause symptoms, there is no reason to fear. If it burns, swells or itches every time, it is not necessarily acidity. This can be the immune system’s first warning.