Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a health condition involving the accumulation of the white blood cell eosinophil in the esophagus. It is characterized by swallowing difficulties, chest pain, regurgitation, etc. Although this condition’s exact causes are unknown, an allergic reaction to specific foods or environmental agents can add to the risk. Doctors typically recommend eliminating and reintroducing specific foods to gauge which food group is the trigger. These food groups are likely to trigger EoE:

Dairy and its products
Milk protein often causes the body to produce excessive quantities of eosinophils, leading to EoE. Those with this condition may have allergic reactions to dairy in general or specific dairy products or forms. Eliminating dairy from your food routine and reintroducing it in stages can help you identify whether you are allergic to dairy.

Wheat
Gluten intolerance can be a contributing factor to the development of EoE. Studies have demonstrated that eliminating gluten for some days can help identify whether gluten intolerance is responsible for the development of EoE in one’s body. One must also consider that wheat is not only present in other baked items but also a latent part of oats, barley, and some ice creams. Look for gluten-free options while purchasing groceries and other eatables.

Seafood
Certain proteins in fish and shellfish can sometimes trigger EoE; one can be allergic to either or both. You can eliminate both varieties for a specific period and reintroduce them one by one to identify any repercussions. For example, one must be weary of including fish and shellfish in certain ready-to-eat foods like Caesar dressing and Worcestershire sauce.

Soy
This protein source can be an allergen and cause EoE in some individuals. To determine if it is a trigger, one must eliminate soy in all forms, including soymilk, soy sauce, soy butter, and tofu. Soy is also a common replacement for meats and is found in various foods available in the market. Check the ingredients in packaged foods while eliminating soy from your meal plan.

Nuts
Nuts may sometimes – but not always – trigger EoE. When avoiding nuts to understand if they are causing EoE, eliminate all forms of tree nuts, nut butter, and nut oils, as well as ready-to-eat items containing nuts in any form. If you are not lactose intolerant and dairy is not one of your triggers, you may replace nut butter with regular or clarified options. Nut oils may be replaced with alternatives like olive oil and coconut oil.

Eggs
In the case of egg allergies, the immune system may produce antibodies to fight against the proteins present in this food, which can trigger allergic reactions. Children are typically more affected by egg allergies than adults. Some individuals are generally allergic to eggs, whereas others can consume baked goods but not cooked preparations like scrambled eggs. Trial and error can help one identify whether having eggs contributes to EoE.

Elimination is one of the most common techniques to identify your EoE triggers. Although there is no definitive cure for EoE, the key is to closely observe your food intake and environmental exposure and determine its cause.