What food should a child with a latex allergy avoid?

Children with a latex allergy are advised to avoid certain foods that are known to have proteins similar to those found in natural rubber latex. Bananas are particularly important for this group because they contain a protein called chitinase, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with latex allergies. This is due to cross-reactivity, where the immune system mistakenly identifies similar proteins in the food as harmful, just as it does with latex. In addition to bananas, other foods that may need to be avoided include kiwis, avocados, and chestnuts, as they can also contain similar proteins.

On the other hand, apples, carrots, and grapes do not typically have the same association with latex allergies and are generally considered safe for children with this condition. Understanding these associations helps in managing dietary restrictions for children with latex allergies effectively.