Peanut allergy Rates in Children see dramatic Decline As 2017
New York, NY – A notable drop in peanut allergies among children is being observed across the United States, with rates plummeting since 2017, according to recent findings and expert analysis.The decline is linked to updated guidelines encouraging the early introduction of peanuts to infants, a strategy previously cautioned against.
For decades, pediatricians advised delaying the introduction of allergenic foods like peanuts, fearing it would increase the risk of developing allergies. However, a landmark 2017 study, the Learning Early About Peanut Allergy (LEAP) trial, challenged this conventional wisdom, demonstrating that early, regular exposure to peanuts could reduce the likelihood of a child developing a peanut allergy. This led to revised guidelines from organizations like the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), recommending the introduction of peanut-containing foods to most infants between four and eleven months of age.
“This is a heartening indication that our growing emphasis on early introduction has been accompanied by a reduction in peanut allergy,” says Dr. Edwin gabryszewski, lead author of a recent study examining the impact of these changes. While more research is needed on both prevention and treatment, the initial results are promising.
Experts emphasize the importance of safe introduction methods. Registered dietitian, Andrea McNairn, advises introducing peanuts alongside other solid foods. Even then, whole peanuts pose a choking hazard, and peanut butter can be difficult for babies to swallow. She suggests thinning peanut butter with water or breast milk, “working towards about 2 tsp a few times a week,” and recommends Bamba peanut butter puffs, which dissolve easily.
Guardians should closely monitor for allergic reactions – such as hives or vomiting – when introducing any allergen. Mild symptoms can often be managed with an antihistamine, according to the ChildrenS hospital of Los Angeles, but severe reactions requiring immediate medical attention include vomiting, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
Continued exposure to peanuts is also crucial. McNairn explains that removing a previously tolerated food from a baby’s diet “could become sensitized to it.” therefore, prioritizing foods regularly eaten by the family is recommended, as babies naturally want to consume what they see others enjoying.
