What You Need to Know
Australia has the highest rate of food allergies in the world, affecting one in ten babies by their first birthday. While the exact cause of this rise remains unknown, research is ongoing and several treatment trials are underway.
Fortunately, recent findings have led to changes in feeding guidelines that can help parents reduce their child's risk of developing food allergies.
Introducing Allergens Early is Key
Previously, the recommendation was to avoid all allergenic foods. However, research has shown that delaying the introduction of egg allergens can actually increase the risk of food allergies. In fact, a UK study found that early peanut allergen introduction can reduce the risk of peanut allergy by 80%.
Based on these findings, the Infant Feeding and Allergy Prevention Guidelines were updated in 2016. Now, it is recommended to introduce common allergens like eggs, cow's milk, peanuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, and tree nuts as soon as your baby shows signs of being ready for solid foods (around six months, but not before four months).
Introducing Allergens Safely
When introducing allergens, it's important to do so one at a time to identify potential problems. If there's no reaction, continue serving the food at least twice a week. This helps decrease the likelihood of long-term allergies and severe reactions.
Recognizing Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions usually occur within minutes, but can take up to two hours. Symptoms can range from mild (hives, vomiting, swelling) to severe (anaphylaxis, which includes difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue, wheezing, and paleness).
If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, stop feeding the food immediately and seek medical advice. For severe reactions, lay your child flat, call triple-zero, and use an adrenaline injector if you have one.
Most Allergies Resolve Over Time
The good news is that most infant egg allergies and 30% of peanut allergies naturally resolve by age six. However, some allergies, like those to tree nuts and seeds, are usually long-lasting.
Treatment Options and Ongoing Research
Currently, there is no approved treatment for food allergies in Australia. However, innovative treatment options are available through clinical trials, such as the Egg-Up Trial, which investigates whether gradually introducing egg at home can help resolve egg allergy in infants.
With ongoing research and updated feeding guidelines, parents can play a crucial role in reducing their child's risk of developing food allergies and ensuring a healthy future.