Why one in ten children have a food allergy | Dr. Gideon Lack
Aug 15, 2024
auto_awesome
Dr. Gideon Lack, a leading Professor of Paediatric Allergy at King’s College London, discusses the alarming rise in food allergies among children. He dismantles myths about food allergies, emphasizing that early exposure is crucial for prevention. Dr. Lack shares revolutionary guidelines that can drastically lower allergy risks and improve treatment outcomes. He also highlights the importance of the gut microbiome in immunity and offers practical advice for parents on introducing allergenic foods to their children.
The rise in food allergies among children is linked to environmental factors rather than genetic changes, signaling an urgent need for examination.
Professor Gideon Lack's research advocates for the early introduction of allergenic foods to infants, potentially preventing the onset of allergies.
Understanding the immune system's function in distinguishing benign proteins is crucial, especially regarding the role of skin exposure and conditions like eczema.
Deep dives
The Allergy Epidemic
Allergic diseases are increasingly prevalent, affecting nearly a third of the global population, with a significant rise in children hospitalized for severe reactions—showing a 72% increase over three years. Proponents argue we are in the midst of an allergy epidemic, where factors contributing to this surge require urgent examination. Professor Gideon Lack's research indicates that over the past century, food allergies in children have escalated from nearly nonexistent to affecting about 10% of school-aged children. This alarming trend is not attributed to genetic changes but is strongly linked to environmental factors and lifestyle choices.
Shifting Guidelines on Allergy Prevention
Professor Lack's groundbreaking findings have shifted public health guidelines in several countries, including the US and UK. Previously, guidelines suggested delaying the introduction of allergenic foods to infants, but Lack's research indicates that early exposure may actually prevent the development of allergies. This change emphasizes the importance of introducing common allergenic foods like peanuts, eggs, and milk at an early age—ideally around four to six months—rather than avoiding them. Such measures could dramatically reduce the prevalence of peanut allergies, as demonstrated by his observational and randomized control studies.
Understanding Allergic Reactions
An allergy arises when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless protein, such as those in foods like peanuts, as a threat, leading to an overreaction. This involves the production of IgE antibodies that trigger symptoms such as swelling, vomiting, and, in severe cases, anaphylaxis. The distinction between allergies and intolerances is crucial; while an allergy involves the immune system's adverse response, intolerances do not provoke such a reaction. Professor Lack clarifies that food allergies typically manifest early in life, while respiratory allergies may develop later due to prolonged exposure.
The Role of the Immune System
The immune system plays a vital role in distinguishing between benign proteins and harmful pathogens, a function that begins in fetal development and continues throughout early childhood. Proper exposure to various proteins—both through ingestion and skin contact—helps the immune system learn to tolerate foods. Lack's studies indicate that infants actively putting things in their mouths, including foods, contributes to their immune system's ability to recognize safe substances. He emphasizes that exposure through the skin may lead to allergic responses, particularly in those with conditions like eczema.
Actionable Advice for Parents
Parents are encouraged to introduce allergenic foods to their infants, particularly if the child shows signs of eczema, as they are at higher risk for developing food allergies. Guidelines suggest introducing peanuts, eggs, milk, and wheat from around four months of age, while ensuring that food is presented safely and in manageable amounts. Consistent exposure—multiple times a week—is essential to cultivate tolerance and prevent allergies from forming. Additionally, pregnant women should maintain a balanced diet without avoiding allergenic foods to support the child's immune development.
Allergies are on the rise in both infants and adults. Many are calling it an epidemic. Allergies can limit your diet, cause irritation, and in some cases be life threatening.
In today’s episode, we discuss the evidence suggesting that our gut plays a key role in protecting us from food allergies.
Professor Gideon Lack tells us how we can reduce the risk of allergies developing in children. Gideon also shares innovative ways to treat allergies and significantly reduce the risk of death.
Gideon is Professor of Paediatric Allergy at King’s College London. His groundbreaking studies into allergies have reversed the official medical advice of multiple countries.
🥑 Learn how your body responds to food 👉 zoe.com/podcast for 10% off
🌱 Try our new plant based wholefood supplement - Daily 30
*Naturally high in copper which contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism and the normal function of the immune system
