Prevalence of food allergies seems to be growing worldwide. Data show that food allergy mediated by IgE immunoglobulin affects 10% of young children in some countries. It can bring unpleasant symptoms to the child, affect growth and development, and can interfere with the experience of connection between mother and child when breastfeeding is interrupted or limited.

According to Rocío Landa, medical manager at Abbottfood allergy occurs when immune system reacts to the protein components of some foods. Such is the case of cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA), which creates reactions or symptoms when breast milk, formula, or solid foods containing cow’s milk are consumed. Some of the more common symptoms include:

• Digestive problems — such as vomiting, colic, diarrhea or constipation
• skin reactions— such as rashes or eczema
• Respiratory problems — such as breathing problems, wheezing, runny nose and irritated or itchy eyes

For young children with CMA, in addition to efforts to relieve symptoms, a planned diet should be given that includes foods that strengthen and support the proper development of the immune system. Research shows that in the first years of life, 73% of children are allergic to cow’s milk protein you can develop eczema. However, there are certain steps that any mother or father, caregiver or healthcare professional can take to strengthen the developing immune system.

Feeding and development of the baby

dr. Rocío points out that the first thousand days of a baby’s life – or the time between conception and the child’s second birthday – is a unique period that helps establish health habits and nutrition that goes hand in hand with optimal growth.

A pregnant mother can help maximize the development of her baby by eating well during pregnancy. During childhood, mother’s milk It is ideal nutrition for babies because it transfers immunity from mother to baby and helps in the development of the immune system. Breast milk is a complex biological fluid that includes nutrients, enzymes, hormones, antibodies, immune cells, good bacteria and other bioactive molecules.

When Breast-feeding is not possible, infant formulas provide solutions specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of children. However, formula-fed children with food allergies are vulnerable to immune challenges because they may have higher concentrations of pro-inflammatory markers, diversity intestinal microbiota altered and increased production of hypersecretory IgE immunoglobulin.

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These children need the right nutrients to help them fight off infections and support the development of their immune systems. For this reason, they are an immunomodulating and essential ingredient in this process HMO (human milk oligosaccharides).

They are unique prebiotics that support proper functioning digestive system and development of immunity. More recently, they are being added to infant formulas, including hypoallergenic formulas for children with food allergies.