Phenols and Salicylates as Additives

Phenolic Compounds and Salicylic Derivatives as Additives

Phenols and salicylates serve not only as natural components of various foods but also find use as additives in many products. Their presence can enhance flavours, provide antioxidant properties, or serve as preservatives. However, for some individuals, especially children, sensitivity to these compounds can lead to adverse reactions ranging from mild discomfort to more severe symptoms. Understanding their roles as additives and their potential impacts on health is crucial for navigating dietary choices and managing sensitivities effectively. This introduction sets the stage for exploring the complexities of phenols and salicylates as additives and their implications for individuals sensitive to these compounds.

What are phenols and salicylates? 

The term phenol is used to describe a group of chemical compounds that are found in plants. Salicylates is a type of phenol. These compounds are beneficial because they act as preservatives, protecting plants against bacterial/fungal infection, insects and UV radiation damage.

Natural phenols have many benefits for humans and plants alike. phenols are found in many fruits, vegetables and nuts. They contain antioxidants that protect against heart disease, promote healthy digestion and brain function and reduce inflammation.

Also, packaged and processed foods contain phenols. Many of these phenols are synthesized phenols, which manufacturers use to artificially colour, flavour and extend shelf life. Some medications, toothpaste, and lotions contain salicylates that are synthetically produced.

Phenols and salicylates are distinct classes of chemical compounds with varied applications and properties. Phenols can be distinguished by the presence of an aromatic hydrocarbon ring with an attached hydroxyl (-OH) group; this characteristic gives phenols their distinctive antioxidant capabilities as well as acting as disinfectants and antiseptics. Naturally occurring phenolic compounds can be found abundantly throughout nature as natural defence mechanisms as well as potential health benefits.

Salicylates, on the other hand, are derivatives of salicylic acid or closely related compounds. Salicylic acid itself is one key component, featuring a benzene ring with both an acid group and a hydroxyl group attached. This structure forms the basis of numerous salicylate compounds, most notably Acetylsalicylic Acid (ASA), commonly referred to as aspirin. Salicylates are well-known for their therapeutic effects, including anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic effects that make them valuable in treating pain, lowering fevers and relieving inflammation. Salicylates can be found naturally in willow bark, which historically served as the basis for developing aspirin and similar medications. Both phenols and salicylates play vital roles in medicine, industry, and natural ecosystems – demonstrating their versatility across various fields.

Why are children sensitive to phenols and salicylates?

Some people react negatively to phenols or salicylates, even though they are good for us. A child who lacks phenol sulfurtransferase will struggle to process foods that are high in phenols. PST is an enzymatic enzyme that breaks down the phenols in foods, allowing your body to utilize what it needs while excreting what it does not. People with a PST deficit have difficulty detoxifying and removing phenols and other salicylates. This causes them to build up. This accumulation leads to phenol sensitivities. 

Children may be more sensitive to phenols and salicylates due to various aspects of their developing physiology and metabolic pathways. Phenols can be found naturally in food sources like fruit, vegetables and artificial additives; salicylates are another type of phenol found naturally in plants such as fruits, vegetables and herbs.

First of all, children’s metabolic systems are still developing and this may impact how they process and eliminate compounds like phenols and salicylates from their bodies efficiently. Some enzymes responsible for breaking down and clearing these substances from the body might not yet have fully developed, leading to inefficiency in breaking them down and clearing them efficiently from circulation; resulting in higher concentrations of these chemicals which could trigger allergic reactions in some individuals.

Second, children may exhibit a more sensitive immune response to certain compounds than adults do, manifesting as allergies or intolerances that trigger an immune system response against them as potentially dangerous substances, leading to symptoms like skin rashes, digestive disturbances or respiratory conditions.

Diets rich in phenols and salicylates may contribute to variations in children’s sensitivities; unlike adults who may develop tolerance or awareness of their sensitivities over time, children may consume foods unwittingly high in these compounds that exacerbate reactions.

Neurological factors also play a crucial role in children’s sensitivity to phenols and salicylates, as these compounds may interfere with neurotransmitter systems in the brain, potentially altering behaviour, attention, and mood. Children diagnosed with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder may be particularly prone to such effects due to neurodevelopmental differences that interfere with metabolic and immune responses triggered by exposure to these compounds.

Children’s sensitivity to phenols and salicylates results from various factors, including immature metabolic pathways, enhanced immune responses, dietary exposure, and potential neurological impacts. Understanding these elements is vital in providing parents and caregivers with effective diet management plans for children in cases of suspected or diagnosed sensitivities.

Tests and Symptoms

Symptoms Physical and Behavioral

The symptoms of a phenol/salicylate allergy are varied and can be difficult to diagnose. People with phenol/salicylate sensitivities may experience the following side effects.

• Physical:
  • Headaches
  • Changes in skin colour, eczema or hives
    • Red ears or cheeks are a specific example.
  • Allergy or respiratory problems:
    • Runny or stuffy nose
    • Sinus infection
    • Nasal and sinus polyps
    • Asthma
  • Gastrointestinal problems:
    • Abdominal pain
    • Colitis
    • Diarrhea
    • Inflammation
• Behavior:
  • Hyperactivity
  • A mood swing, irritation, or aggression
  • Stimming
  • Laughing inappropriately
  • The night waking

Testing

No lab test is available for phenol or salicylate sensitivity. If your doctor suspects that a phenol/salicylate allergy is causing symptoms, they will place them on an elimination diet and add provocations to determine if the symptoms worsen or improve.

Your doctor may also request a sample of urine. It is possible to see high levels of taurine in urine when there is an issue converting toxic sulphite into sulphate. This could indicate a problem with phenols.

Treatment options for Phenol or Salicylate Sensitivity

It is almost impossible to avoid phenols because they are present in nearly all foods. Foods that contain phenols are also rich in vitamins and nutrients, which kids require to be healthy and strong.

Treatment usually involves ensuring that the body doesn’t become overwhelmed by excessive phenols and salicylates. This can be achieved by reducing the amount of phenols that the body must process and promoting phenol metabolism.

For example, you can:

• Eliminate all foods that contain artificial dyes, preservatives and additives.
  • Foods that contain artificial or natural flavourings (BHA BHT and TBHQ), preservatives and dyes are particularly harmful.
• Limit the consumption of fruits, vegetables, spices, legumes and nuts that have high levels of phenols.
• Eliminate the foods that cause your child’s symptoms.
• Avoid or reduce exposure to phenols from non-food sources (ibuprofen and Aspirin) ).
• Support the sulfurtransferase pathway (PST) with supplements and by treating medical conditions.

Treatment options for phenol or salicylate sensitivity typically involve dietary management and symptom relief strategies. Here are some approaches that may be considered:

1. Dietary Modifications:
   • Avoidance: The primary approach is to identify and avoid foods and products high in phenols and salicylates. This includes fruits (e.g., berries, citrus fruits), vegetables (e.g., tomatoes, peppers), spices (e.g., cinnamon, cumin), nuts (e.g., almonds), and certain food additives.
   • Low-Salicylate Diet: Some individuals benefit from following a low-salicylate diet, which restricts the intake of foods rich in salicylates to reduce symptoms.
2. Supplements and Medications:
   • Calcium or Magnesium Supplements: These minerals may help reduce the absorption of salicylates in the gut.
   • Probiotics: Supporting gut health with probiotics may aid in digestion and potentially reduce sensitivity symptoms.
   • Antihistamines: In cases where symptoms involve allergic reactions, antihistamines may provide relief.
3. Symptom Management:
   • Topical Treatments: For skin reactions like rashes or irritation, topical creams or ointments can help alleviate discomfort.
   • Pain Relievers: Non-salicylate pain relievers such as acetaminophen (paracetamol) may be recommended for pain management.
4. Monitoring and Professional Guidance:
   • Medical Supervision: It’s important for individuals with phenol or salicylate sensitivity to work closely with healthcare providers, including allergists or dietitians, to establish a personalized management plan.
   • Symptom Diary: Keeping a record of symptoms and dietary intake can help identify triggers and gauge the effectiveness of dietary changes and treatments.
5. Education and Support:
   • Educational Resources: Providing information about foods high in phenols and salicylates can empower individuals and caregivers to make informed dietary choices.
   • Support Groups: Joining support groups or networks with others facing similar sensitivities can provide emotional support and practical advice.

In all cases, individual responses to treatments may vary, and it may take time and effort to identify specific triggers and effective management strategies. Professional guidance is essential to ensure safety and effectiveness in managing phenol or salicylate sensitivity, particularly in children where dietary restrictions can impact growth and nutrition.

Foods and food additives containing phenols/salicylates can be problematic for some children and adults with autism. These otherwise healthy foods can cause mild to severe symptoms. Working with your doctor and being aware of the issue will make your child feel more comfortable.