Did you know that 37% of people living with Alpha-Gal are in Central Virginia? Tick-borne diseases, including Alpha-Gal Syndrome, are a growing public health concern across the United States. Southeastern Virginia, with its warm, humid climate and diverse ecosystems, has become a region of particular interest. These conditions support the year-round activity of various tick species, such as the black-legged, American dog, and Lonestar ticks. In 2024, Centra Health reported 2,136 cases of Alpha-Gal systemwide.
While living with Alpha-Gal may require dietary changes, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor or creativity. In response, Centra has launched an initiative to support the local community by creating a cookbook dedicated to Alpha-Gal education and recipes.
"A Cookbook and Guide for Alpha-Gal" was developed by Centra's dietitians, nutrition services, and medical staff. The cookbook features a variety of recipes, including snacks, salads, soups, entrees, and desserts, all designed to be safe for people with Alpha-Gal. One of the cookbook’s contributors, Jonathan Martin, Associate Director of Nutrition Services, has personal experience with Alpha-Gal. After being diagnosed with the condition, Martin faced the challenge of managing his symptoms, which included feeling unwell for nine months.
“As a food service director, I had many questions about how I could do my job—cooking and handling foods that could trigger an allergic reaction—and whether I could taste-test the dishes I was preparing,” Martin shared.
In addition to diverse recipes, the cookbook includes a comprehensive Alpha-Gal education section. This section provides valuable information about foods to avoid, recognizing the symptoms of Alpha-Gal, prevention tips, treatment options, and safe tick removal techniques.
The cookbook is available for purchase at Centra gift shops, including those at Lynchburg General Hospital, Virginia Baptist Hospital, and Bedford Memorial Hospital. As a result of this project, Centra is also offering Alpha-Gal-friendly meal options for patients and visitors, ensuring that dietary restrictions are met without compromising on taste or variety.
This initiative was made possible thanks to the support of the Centra Foundation.
