Food Allergy: Role of Breastfeeding in Risk Reduction I English II Prof. Dr. Javed Iqbal FAROOQI

Role of breast feeding in food allergy

Breastfeeding plays a significant role in reducing the risk of food allergies in infants. Here's a summary:

Benefits of Breastfeeding in Reducing Food Allergy Risk:
1. Immune system development:- Breast milk contains immunoglobulins, which help develop the infant's immune system and reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
2. Gut microbiome establishment:- Breast milk promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which aids in the development of tolerance to food antigens.
3. Allergen introduction:- Breast milk contains small amounts of allergens from the mother's diet, which helps introduce these allergens to the infant's immune system in a controlled manner.
4. Anti-inflammatory effects:- Breast milk contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation and prevent allergic reactions.

Studies Supporting Breastfeeding's Role in Reducing Food Allergy Risk:

1. A 2019 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that breastfeeding for at least 4 months reduced the risk of food allergy by 24%.
2. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that exclusive breastfeeding for 3-4 months reduced the risk of peanut allergy by 50%.

Recommendations:
1. Exclusive breastfeeding for at least 4-6 months.
2. Continued breastfeeding along with solid food introduction.
3. Avoiding unnecessary dietary restrictions during breastfeeding.
4. Gradual introduction of solid foods, including common allergens, under medical supervision.

Important Notes:
1. Breastfeeding is not a guarantee against food allergies.
2. Some infants may still develop food allergies despite breastfeeding.
3. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on breastfeeding and food allergy prevention.