Peanut allergy ranks among the most common allergies in infants and children. Yet, a study suggests that introducing peanut protein to infants regularly can reduce the likelihood of peanut allergies.
Understanding and analyzing food allergies in infants poses challenges. Among the most prevalent food allergies in children, even newborns, is peanut allergy. On average, one in 50 babies experiences peanut allergy, with symptoms varying from mild rash to severe reactions like upset stomach or life-threatening responses. Any discomfort resulting from peanut consumption in children should be promptly reported to a doctor. However, according to research published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, there are crucial guidelines to comprehend the importance of introducing peanuts early in a baby’s diet to mitigate allergy risks.
Incorporating peanut protein into the diet regularly may lower the risk of developing allergies
In a trial conducted by CMAJ involving 640 infants aged under 11 months, only 3.2 percent of those fed peanut protein exhibited symptoms of peanut allergies nearly five years later, compared to 17.2 percent of children who were not. This study underscores the importance of including peanut protein, such as peanut butter, in children’s diets to enhance resistance to allergies.
Peanuts can be introduced into a child’s diet between the ages of 4 to 6 months
To lower the risk of peanut allergy in infants, it’s recommended to introduce a small amount of peanut protein to children starting from their fourth month. Peanut protein can be administered in the form of peanut butter or peanut flour.
Infants with atopic dermatitis are at a heightened risk of developing peanut allergies
Infants with severe atopic dermatitis are more likely to develop peanut allergies, especially if their family has a high consumption of peanuts. In such cases, if the infant’s atopic dermatitis is severe, it’s advisable to begin introducing peanut protein into their diet under the guidance of a doctor. Consulting a pediatrician is crucial to ensure all necessary precautions are taken to prevent severe reactions to peanuts.
It is recommended that you seek medical advice before introducing peanut protein to children
Before incorporating peanut protein into the diet of children at a heightened risk of allergies, it’s crucial to consult a doctor. Allergy testing, such as skin-prick tests, is essential to assess allergy levels in infants. Children with eczema are particularly susceptible to peanut allergies and should undergo testing before introducing peanut protein into their diet.
Children should receive consistent doses to reduce the likelihood of developing allergies
Merely administering peanut protein once a week might not effectively decrease the risk of allergies. However, according to research published in the journal, infants should be given at least two servings of eight grams of peanut butter per week to reduce the likelihood of developing an allergy.
In order to grasp the importance of incorporating peanut protein into infants’ diets, it’s crucial to be aware of the following symptoms associated with a peanut allergy:
Signs of a Peanut Allergy
- Difficulty in breathing, swallowing, or excessive coughing shortly after consuming peanuts.
- Rapid blueness of the skin and lips, occurring either immediately or within a few minutes after ingesting peanut protein.
- Clamminess of the skin.
- The infant appearing faint after peanut consumption.
- Sudden unconsciousness in severe instances.