Delayed Introduction of Major Allergenic Foods may Increase Allergy Risk among children

A recent study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found crucial evidence linking the delayed introduction of major allergenic foods during early childhood to an increased risk of allergic diseases. The ELFE cohort sheds light on the intricate relationship between complementary feeding (CF) practices and childhood allergies, providing insights that could influence allergy prevention guidelines.

The study delved into the data of 6662 children analyzing their feeding practices from 3 to 10 months old. Researchers calculated the age at which complementary foods were introduced, evaluated the diversity of foods during the first year of life, and assessed the delayed introduction of major allergenic foods like eggs, fish, wheat, and dairy products.

The findings revealed that late introduction of complementary foods beyond six months of age was associated with a 35% higher risk of food allergy in early childhood. Moreover, a low diversity score of food intake at eight months old correlated with a 22% higher risk of asthma. Furthermore, the study found that the introduction of two or more allergenic foods after ten months of age was linked to a 20% higher risk of rhinoconjunctivitis and a substantial 146% higher risk of food allergy.

However, it is essential to note that the association between the delayed introduction of allergenic foods and food allergy remained significant only after excluding early allergic cases (allergies occurring between two months and one or two years).

The study has significant implications for childhood allergy prevention strategies. It reinforces the updated guidelines that emphasize the importance of timely and diverse introduction of major allergenic foods during infancy. These guidelines aim to reduce the risk of developing allergic diseases in early childhood and contribute to better overall health and well-being for children. As research on childhood allergies continues to evolve, this study serves as a cornerstone for evidence-based recommendations on dietary practices during infancy. 

Source:

Adam, T., Divaret‐Chauveau, A., Roduit, C., Adel‐Patient, K., Deschildre, A., Raherison, C., Charles, M. ‐A., Nicklaus, S., & de Lauzon‐Guillain, B. (2023). Complementary feeding practices are related to the risk of food allergy in the ELFE cohort. In Allergy. Wiley. https://doi.org/10.1111/all.15828