Peanut consumption in early childhood can reduce allergy risk

Washington: An early introduction to peanuts in an infant's diet can reduce the risk of peanut allergy, recent findings suggest. According to the latest study, infants who are fed peanut protein regularly have a lower risk of peanut allergy.

Researchers suggest that in order to prevent peanut allergy, peanut protein (such as peanut butter or powdered puff) may be introduced at home for most babies between 4 and 6 months as one of the first foods.

Babies with severe eczema are more likely to have a peanut allergy, and those with no or only mild eczema are best-suited for peanut introduction in the home.

Infants with risk factors for peanut allergy, such as severe eczema, egg allergy or both, should be seen by a specialist before peanut introduction.

To reduce the risk of peanut allergy, 8 grams of peanut protein (1 heaped teaspoon of peanut butter) should be eaten at least twice a week, researchers suggested.