Food allergies are on the rise, especially in developed countries. Children are at an increased risk of developing food allergies compared to adults. According to the CDC, 4% of children in the US have food allergies. Also, children with food allergies are at a heightened risk of developing allergic reactions to other stimuli and developing conditions such as asthma.
Factors Influencing High Levels of Food Allergy in Melbourne
Melbourne has been named the food allergy capital of the world. There are more food allergy cases reported here than anywhere else in the world. A few factors have earned the most livable city this questionable distinction.
Location
Part of the reason is geographic. Melbourne is far from the equator and receives very little sun, a vital natural source of vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency has a negative impact on immune health development leading to an increased risk of developing a food allergy.
Cleanliness
Cleanliness is next to Godliness; clean is considered pure. However, too much cleanliness creates a conducive environment for food allergies. The stimuli required to boost the immune system have been cleaned out and are missing. A healthy dose of a dirty environment tends to act as a protection against developing a food allergy, especially in children. A farm environment where children can go out and play in the dirt with their siblings and pets works to reduce the risk of getting food allergies.
The underlying premise is that a gradual exposure to certain forms of dust and dirt create a tolerance for the same that boosts the health of the immune system. This results in a reduced risk of allergies to such stimuli and foods.
Child nutrition
Australian mothers are protecting young children from exposure to key solid food groups for longer. The proposed remedy is to introduce solid foods shortly after six months and to include all important food groups. They should especially contain peanut paste, eggs, wheat and dairy to build tolerance and prevent allergic reactions to these foods.
Genetics
In addition, new studies suggest a link between genes and food allergies. This indicates people with certain hereditary traits are at increased risk of developing food allergies.
Recent research in Europe has concluded that the best strategy to combat food allergies is to run child day care centers from within a farm. This guarantees exposure to hay, farm dust, cows, horses, goats and the sun in limited phases which is exactly what the doctor ordered. You not only boost the immune system of the children but also offer them earlier exposure to different food groups.
Summary
Food allergies are on the increase across the globe with Melbourne taking the prime spot. Recent studies in Australia have come up with new ways to help reduce the risk of food allergies, especially in children. In addition, ASCIA, the premier organization dealing with allergies in Australia and New Zealand, is also at the forefront of research and is educating new mothers and healthcare professionals on new parenting methods that reduce the risk of developing a food allergy. Dr. Summit Shah, a renowned food allergy expert and President of Premier Allergy in Ohio, also runs an informative portal excellent for families with a member with food allergies.