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Struggling with gut issues that feel like IBS? They may actually be symptoms of Alpha Gal, a tick-borne allergy that causes bloating, cramps, and diarrhea after eating red meat or animal-based products. Learn the difference and how Gastro Vitale® can help.
Alpha Gal Sydrome
Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is a tick-borne allergy to a sugar molecule found in red meat and many mammalian-derived products. While often thought of as a “meat allergy,” new American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) guidance emphasizes that Alpha Gal Syndrome (AGS) can present with gastrointestinal-only symptoms—and these can look almost identical to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
When Alpha-Gal Looks Like IBS
According to the ACG, Alpha Gal disease symptoms can inlcude abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, and diarrhea without typical allergy signs like hives or anaphylaxis. Because these symptoms overlap with IBS, AGS is often overlooked.
• Symptoms of alpha gal usually occur hours after eating mammalian meat or foods containing gelatin, dairy, or animal-derived additives.
• Children and adults alike have been misdiagnosed with IBS or undergone unnecessary procedures before an AGS diagnosis was made.
• A simple blood test measuring alpha-gal IgE and an alpha-gal avoidance diet remain the cornerstones of diagnosis and management.
This overlap makes it crucial for clinicians and patients to consider AGS when “IBS” symptoms don’t respond to traditional care.
Supplements and Hidden Alpha-Gal Risks:
Individuals with alpha-gal syndrome must be cautious when consuming medications and supplements, particularly capsules, as some may contain inactive ingredients derived from animal sources. Gelatin capsules are easy to identify but certain hidden compounds, such as stearic acid and lactic acid, are common in capsules and may trigger allergic reactions if they are derived from animal products, but not if sourced from plants. For patients with alpha gal syndrome, these hidden sources can trigger the same GI symptoms.
Unfortunately, these problematic ingredients are not always easily identifiable, as manufacturers are not legally required to disclose alpha-gal content or perform testing to ensure the final product is free from contamination. This lack of transparency is compounded by the fact that manufacturers can change the inactive ingredients in their products without warning, leaving consumers at risk of exposure.
That means even well-intended gut health aids could worsen problems if they aren’t alpha-gal safe.
Peppermint Oil: Backed by ACG for IBS
The ACG’s 2021 IBS guidelines highlight enteric-coated peppermint oil as an effective option for managing IBS symptoms like bloating and abdominal pain. Peppermint oil acts as a natural antispasmodic, relaxing gut muscles and easing discomfort.
For patients with IBS, Aplha Gal Syndrome, or both, peppermint oil offers a science-backed way to support digestive comfort, if the supplement is safe from mammalian ingredients.
Gut Therapy With Peppermint Freshness
Gastro Vitale®: The Alpha-Gal Friendly Choice
Gastro Vitale® stands out as the only peppermint oil supplement specifically designed to be alpha-gal friendly:
• Vegan, Halal, and Gelatin-Free- safe for those avoiding mammalian-derived ingredients.
• Enteric-Coated Peppermint Oil – delivers relief directly to the intestines where it’s needed most.
• Clean Formula – free from dyes, lactose, and unnecessary fillers.
• Backed by Guidelines – aligned with ACG recommendations for IBS symptom management.
This makes Gastro Vitale® uniquely suited for individuals with IBS-like symptoms who also need the reassurance of an alpha gal safe supplement.
Final Takeaway
Bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea don’t always mean IBS, sometimes they signal alpha-gal syndrome, a condition now formally recognized by gastroenterology guidelines. Because AGS can mimic IBS, safe treatment options matter more than ever.
Gastro Vitale® provides guideline-backed peppermint oil relief in a vegan, alpha gal friendly formulation, making it a smart choice for anyone navigating IBS or AGS symptoms.
Talk to your doctor if you have symptoms of alpha gal syndrome, and consider Gastro Vitale® as a clean, trusted supplement for gut comfort.