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Timing of Introduction of Solids and Early-Onset Allergic Disease

  • Allergy (D Campbell, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of review

The ‘ideal’ age to commence introduction to any solid foods, or specific ‘more allergenic’ foods, as an allergy prevention strategy has been debated for the last two decades.

Recent findings

Observational studies have indicated that introducing any solid foods prior to four months of age was associated with an increased risk of allergic disease. On the other hand, delayed introduction (beyond 6–10 months) of ‘more allergenic’ foods (including dairy foods, fish and egg) has also been associated with an increased risk of allergies. More recently, three randomised controlled trials have suggested that there is no reason to delay the introduction of the ‘more allergenic’ foods after solid foods have commenced, and have provided some data to suggest that sensitisation may occur at a much earlier stage.

Summary

Strategies to prevent early-life food allergen sensitisation prior to commencement of solid foods are needed and should be the focus of future research.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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  1. School of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Western Australia, 100 Roberts Rd, Subiaco, WA, 6008, Australia

    Debra J. Palmer

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Palmer, D.J. Timing of Introduction of Solids and Early-Onset Allergic Disease. Curr Pediatr Rep 4, 147–154 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40124-016-0106-3

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