If your family has a history of food allergies, consider breastfeeding your baby as recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. Breastfeeding has been shown to delay or even prevent the onset of asthma, food allergies, and eczema in infants.
Research indicates that infants from families with a strong history of food allergies experience better outcomes when breastfed. Those exclusively breastfed for six months had a lower incidence and severity of food allergies compared to formula-fed infants.
Furthermore, studies suggest that exclusive breastfeeding or a combination of breastfeeding and formula feeding reduces the likelihood of developing eczema, a condition characterized by dry, red, and irritated skin.
While the efficacy of avoiding certain foods during pregnancy and breastfeeding to prevent allergies and asthma is uncertain, some women opt to eliminate allergenic foods like peanut butter, fish, and eggs from their diets. For those with severe food allergies, limiting intake of allergenic foods during pregnancy and breastfeeding may be advisable based on research findings.
If concerned about your child’s allergy or asthma risk, consulting with a healthcare provider is recommended. They can provide guidance on dietary choices during pregnancy to mitigate potential allergic risks for your child.