Alpha-gal Syndrome Explained: Tick Bites, Meat Allergy, Delayed Reactions & What to Avoid

Drew and Dr. Z discuss Alpha-gal syndrome, a tick-bite–associated allergy to non-primate mammal products that can cause delayed reactions, including hives, throat tightness, GI symptoms like diarrhea, and even anaphylaxis hours after eating. They explain that Alpha-gal was once tied mainly to the lone star tick in the South but is now being seen more widely, including Rhode Island, with other ticks like the blacklegged and western blacklegged ticks. Dr. Z shares real patient cases—from cookout-triggered reactions to chronic GI and skin symptoms resolving after eliminating mammal-derived foods—and emphasizes that testing (alpha-gal IgE) must be interpreted with symptoms in mind, since positive tests without symptoms may not require avoidance. They also note growing concerns about links to medications, medical devices, and possible cardiac implications, and stress balancing awareness with avoiding unnecessary anxiety. Here's a recent article about the rise of Alpha-gal syndrome: https://www.wsj.com/health/the-ticks-... 00:00 Alpha-gal Overview 01:03 Show Intro Theme 01:20 Zoo Penguins Detour 03:01 What Is Alpha-gal? 03:44 Ticks And Spread 05:23 Real Anaphylaxis Cases 07:05 Testing And Diagnosis 08:32 GI And Skin Symptoms 10:17 Avoidance And Hidden Sources 11:50 When To Stop Meat 12:33 Why Testing Can Backfire 13:58 Lyme Trial Screening 16:27 How Clinicians Decide 18:47 Elimination Diet Approach 21:46 Lyme And Tick Prevention 23:29 Treatment And Delayed Reactions 27:33 Balancing Risk And Anxiety 28:48 Wrap Up And Disclaimer 📩 Have a question for the show? Email: [email protected]