A recent study from Australia found that infants exclusively breastfed in the first three days of life had fewer food allergies at 1 year of age compared to those who received some formula during this period.
Researchers analyzed data from 666 infants, with 54% being exclusively breastfed. The results showed a significant increase in risk of any food allergy at 1 year, as well as peanut and multiple food allergies, among the partial colostrum feeding group. Specifically, the study found that:
– Preterm infants born after 37 weeks’ gestation were more likely to develop food allergies.
– Peanut introduction after 7 months increased the risk of peanut allergy by 5.49-fold in partially breastfed infants.
Lead researcher Maheshwar Bhasin noted that earlier colostrum feeding and avoiding formula supplementation may help prevent food allergies, particularly among partially breastfed infants. The study’s findings suggest that cross-validation with other populations is necessary to confirm the results.
The study’s lead author, Amanda Cox, cautioned that more research is needed due to the small sample size and unclear causality of the results. However, the study provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of exclusive colostrum feeding in reducing food allergy risk.
Source: https://www.medpagetoday.com/meetingcoverage/aaaai/114477