For years, peanut allergies have caused worry for parents, teachers, and caregivers alike. Even a small exposure can trigger a serious reaction, making everyday moments like snack time or school lunches stressful. But there’s finally some good news, a large new study shows peanut allergies in children are starting to decline.
Researchers at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) conducted a large study to see how early feeding practices affect food allergies. They found that introducing children to peanut, egg, and other common allergens earlier in life, rather than delaying them, can lower the risk of developing allergies. This study builds on previous research that prompted major health organizations to update their guidelines, showing that these changes may be making a real difference for children nationwide. You can read more about the research here! So what does this mean for families?
Why Early Introduction Matters
For years, parents were told to delay introducing foods like peanuts and eggs. Research now shows that offering these foods early, usually between 4 and 6 months, can help the immune system build tolerance. Pediatrician Dr. Edith Bracho-Sanchez explains that even slight, consistent exposures to allergens like peanuts or eggs — for example, a tiny amount of smooth peanut butter once or twice a week — may help an infant’s immune system develop tolerance. Whole peanuts should never be given to infants due to choking risk.
What Parents Should Keep in Mind
Every child is different, so before introducing peanut-containing foods, talk to your pediatrician, especially if your baby has:
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Severe eczema
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A known egg allergy
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A family history of food allergies
Your pediatrician can guide you on when and how to safely introduce allergenic foods. In some cases, they may recommend testing or supervised introduction in a clinical setting.
A Positive Trend for Families
The decline in peanut allergies shows how much of an impact early, evidence-based guidance can have. As more families and healthcare providers follow these updated recommendations, we may continue to see fewer children developing severe food allergies in the future. This research also offers reassurance that even small, regular exposure to common allergens in infancy can be a safe and effective way to help train the immune system.
Need Allergy Care for Your Child?
At Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care, we’re here to help with allergies and other pediatric health concerns:
Telemedicine is a good option if:
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Allergies are mild
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You want guidance on over-the-counter medications
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Antihistamines haven’t worked after 24 hours
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You have questions or concerns
Come in-person if:
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Your child is short of breath
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They may need breathing treatments or stronger medications
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Your child is acting very sick
Go to the emergency room if:
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Your child has difficulty breathing or swallowing
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They have a history of severe allergic reactions
We provide safe, reliable care to help your child feel better, whether it’s a quick telemedicine visit or in-person evaluation.
Believe it or not, some parents even choose to introduce top allergens in the parking lot of an emergency room or childrens urgent care, just to be safe if their baby has a reaction. At Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care, we’re here for you if you have questions or need help!
