In 2018, the number of children who have a peanut allergy reached 1.8 million in the U.S. Other countries, like Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom, also saw a significant increase over the past years.
Peanut allergy is among the most common food allergies affecting children in the U.S. Between 1997 and 2010, the number of people allergic to peanuts increased from 0.4 percent of the population to more than 2 percent, according to .
Peanuts can be dangerous to those with the condition. Exposure could lead to anaphylaxis, a serious allergic reaction that could cause death.
There are millions of people living with the condition around the world today, but the medical community has yet to determine what directly causes peanut allergies in different populations.
However, there are ways to prevent peanut allergies. Recent studies suggest that diets in early childhood could play a significant role in the development of the condition.
Remedies For Peanut Allergies
Introduce Peanuts To Kids
Previous research showed that early introduction of peanuts to children could “significantly” reduce the risk of having allergic reactions. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases along with other health experts released clinical guidelines in 2017 for the safe introduction of peanut-containing foods to infants at an earlier age.
Quercetin
It is a plant flavonoid present in fruits, vegetables and grains. You can also get quercetin from red wine and green tea.
Quercetin is known for its effects that could block allergies to certain foods, including peanuts. One study in Iran showed that the regular intake of the flavonoid reduce peanut sensitivities and suppress allergy symptoms.
Probiotics
Researchers have been studying the health benefits of probiotics in the gut. One team found in 2015 that providing a combination of probiotic supplementation and very small amounts of peanut protein to children, aged 1 to 10 years, helped them become more tolerant to peanuts.
A follow-up study in 2017 showed the treatment allowed the study participants to continue eating peanuts for years. Researchers said the combination provided “long-lasting clinical benefit.”
Bromelain
Bromelain is commonly used as an anti-inflammatory and anti-swelling agent. But a study in 2013 found another health benefit.
Researchers said bromelain worked effectively to reduce food allergies, asthma and dermatitis. It could reduce the prevalence of conditions affecting the airways as well as peanut allergy symptoms.
Multivitamin Supplements
Taking some supplements could help boost the body’s immune response. A study with children diagnosed with multiple food allergies found that they have a higher risk of poor growth and vitamin deficiency.
Food allergies could limit their intake of vitamin D, copper, zinc and selenium. Giving children multivitamin supplements would help improve their immune system and regulate their immunological response to allergens.
