Peanut consumption in infancy prevents peanut allergy, study finds

Date: February 24, 2015

Source: NIH/National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Summary:

Introduction of peanut products into the diets of infants at high risk of developing peanut allergy was safe and led to an 81 percent reduction in the subsequent development of the allergy, a clinical trial has found. "Food allergies are a growing concern, not just in the United States but around the world," said an expert. "For a study to show a benefit of this magnitude in the prevention of peanut allergy is without precedent. The results have the potential to transform how we approach food allergy prevention."

Researchers found an overall 81 percent reduction of peanut allergy in children who began early, continuous consumption of peanut compared to those who avoided peanut.

Credit: © Diana Taliun / Fotolia

See more at:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/02/150224083817.htm