Does breastfeeding protect against allergic rhinitis during childhood? A meta-analysis of prospective studies

Abstract

Exclusive breastfeeding during the first 3 mo after birth protects against allergic rhinitis in children, both with and without a family history of atopy. The protective association, although of borderline statistical significance, was substantial. Larger prospective studies with strict methodology and longer periods of follow-up are needed.

Home environment in relation to allergic rhinitis among preschool children in Beijing, China: A cross-sectional study

“…Protection for boys did not reach statistical significance [27]. A review study indicated that exclusive breastfeeding was protective against allergic rhinitis in 3-month-old children, regardless of family history of atopy [28]. Controversy as to whether prolonged or exclusive breastfeeding protects against allergic diseases is ongoing, but breastfeeding is recommended for its protection against infections [28e31].…”

Primary prevention of asthma and allergy

“…9,20,62 Two systemic reviews on this subject reached the conclusion that exclusive breast-feeding does seem to have some protective effect on the development of allergy. 63,64 This effect might be due to avoidance of cow's milk protein allergen, other dietary constituents of breast milk, an immunomodulatory effect, or a combination of these. It was recently suggested that the effect of exclusive breast-feeding might be dependent on atopic heredity.…”

Diagnosis and treatment of atopic dermatitis in children and adults: European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology/American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology/PRACTALL Consensus Report

“…The formulas have equivalent nutritional values but a reduced capacity to induce IgEmediated reactions. [194][195][196][197] A large controlled study in high-risk infants using different partially and extensively hydrolyzed formulas for the first 6 months of life demonstrated that extensively hydrolyzed casein formula has the capacity to reduce AD by 50% in the first year of life. 198,199 A different approach for primary prevention is suggested by the introduction of probiotics (Lactobacillus GG) into the maternal and infantile diet.…”