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Understanding Egg Allergy and Your ABCB11 Genetic Result

Egg allergy happens when the immune system reacts to proteins found in eggs, producing symptoms such as skin irritation, hives, breathing difficulty, nasal congestion, or digestive upset. Genetics can influence how the immune system and the gut handle dietary proteins. One gene linked to these processes is ABCB11, which encodes a bile salt transport protein important for digestion and gut health. Variations in ABCB11 may change bile flow, gut barrier function, and immune signaling, and that may affect sensitivity to egg proteins.

How ABCB11 Might Relate to Egg Reactions

ABCB11 helps move bile salts from the liver into the intestine. Proper bile salt flow supports fat digestion, nutrient absorption, and a healthy balance of gut microbes. Changes in this pathway could influence gut barrier integrity and local immune responses to food proteins, which in turn may increase or decrease the chance of an immune reaction to eggs. It is important to remember that genetics are one piece of the puzzle—environmental exposures, age, diet, infections, and other genes also matter.

Interpreting Your rs16823014 Genotype

Two effect alleles (AA) — increased likelihood

If your genotype is AA at rs16823014, you carry two copies of the effect allele. This result is associated with a higher genetic predisposition to immune reactions to egg proteins. That means you may be more likely than average to mount an immune response when exposed to egg proteins, which can cause symptoms like hives, respiratory issues, or digestive discomfort. This does not guarantee you have or will develop an egg allergy. Clinical symptoms, exposure history, and medical testing are required for diagnosis. Consider monitoring reactions to eggs closely and consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

One effect allele (AG) — moderate predisposition

If your genotype is AG at rs16823014, you carry one copy of the effect allele. This indicates a moderate increase in genetic susceptibility to immune sensitivity to egg proteins compared with people who do not carry the effect allele. The presence of this variant may modestly influence gut or immune function related to how the body handles egg proteins. It does not confirm allergy. Watch for symptoms when consuming eggs and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, especially before testing or making major dietary changes.

No effect alleles (GG) — typical predisposition

If your genotype is GG at rs16823014, you do not carry the variant associated with increased likelihood of reacting to egg proteins. Your genetic profile suggests a standard or lower genetic predisposition for egg-related immune reactivity based on this specific variant. That does not exclude the possibility of developing an egg allergy, since many factors beyond this single variant affect allergy risk. Continue usual vigilance if you have a history of reactions, and seek medical evaluation when needed.

Practical Recommendations

These suggestions are educational and intended to help you think about lifestyle, diet, and follow-up options. PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making health decisions.

Food and Diet

  • Read labels carefully. Egg is a common ingredient in many processed foods and baked goods.
  • If you suspect an egg allergy or experience symptoms after eating eggs, temporarily avoid eggs until you consult a clinician.
  • When cooking, consider egg substitutes for baking and recipes to avoid accidental exposure.
  • Maintain a balanced diet rich in whole foods to support gut health: fruits, vegetables, fiber-rich grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
  • If eliminating eggs, monitor intake of nutrients commonly found in eggs such as vitamin D, choline, and certain B vitamins, and replace them with other foods.

Supplements and Nutrients

  • Probiotics: A course of probiotic supplements or probiotic-rich foods may support gut microbial balance; choose a validated product and discuss dose with your healthcare provider.
  • Vitamin D: Adequate vitamin D supports immune regulation. Consider testing vitamin D levels and supplementing if deficient under medical supervision.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Anti-inflammatory support from fish oil or plant-based omega-3s may be helpful for general immune balance.
  • Multivitamin: If avoiding eggs leads to dietary gaps, a multivitamin can help meet baseline needs, but tailor choices with a clinician or dietitian.

Lifestyle and Self-Care

  • Stress management: Chronic stress can influence immune responses. Practices such as mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques may help.
  • Sleep: Aim for consistent, restorative sleep to support immune function and gut health.
  • Physical activity: Regular moderate exercise supports overall immune regulation and gut motility.
  • Hygiene and food handling: Prevent cross-contamination in shared kitchens and prepare foods safely when cooking for someone with an allergy.

Monitoring, Testing, and When to See a Clinician

  • Document reactions: Keep a food and symptom diary noting timing, portion size, and symptoms to help clinicians evaluate suspected allergy patterns.
  • Allergy testing: If symptoms are consistent with an allergy, a clinician may recommend skin prick testing, specific IgE blood tests, or an oral food challenge under medical supervision.
  • Emergency plan: For those with moderate to severe reactions, discuss anaphylaxis risk, prescription of emergency epinephrine auto-injectors, and an action plan with a clinician.
  • Dietitian support: If eliminating eggs, a registered dietitian can ensure nutritional adequacy and suggest safe substitutes.

Key Points to Remember

  • ABCB11 variation may influence bile salt transport and indirectly affect gut and immune responses to egg proteins.
  • Genetic predisposition does not equal diagnosis. Clinical symptoms and testing are required to confirm an allergy.
  • If you suspect an egg allergy or experience symptoms, avoid exposure until evaluated and follow medical guidance for testing and management.
  • Supportive strategies include attention to gut health, adequate vitamin D, probiotics as appropriate, stress reduction, good sleep, and safe food handling.

PlexusDx provides educational information about genetic predispositions and does not provide medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for diagnosis, personalized medical recommendations, and before starting or stopping any supplement, medication, or major lifestyle change.