The life-threatening reason why woman was forced to go vegan
(Alamy/PA)
Daisy Holstine, a mother of two from Arkansas, developed a severe allergy to meat, necessitating a vegan diet.
She was diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a potentially life-threatening condition believed to be caused by a lone star tick bite.
AGS occurs when the alpha-gal sugar molecule from a tick triggers an immune system response, leading to allergic reactions to mammal products.
Holstine experienced severe symptoms like swollen eyes and hives, which she eventually linked to meat consumption after an elimination diet suggested by AI.
The allergy can develop months after a tick bite, and while there is no cure, symptoms are managed by avoiding animal products and further tick exposure.