Exclusively breastfeeding infants linked to higher allergy rates in young children, study finds

A new study from the University of Toyama, Japan, analyzing over 88,000 mother-child pairs, found that exclusive breastfeeding for six months is linked to higher food allergy rates: 82% higher risk in the first year, 62% at age two, and 54% at age three. The study also confirmed benefits, including lower asthma risk in early years. Researchers suggest delayed introduction of solid foods may contribute to the allergy risk.

A new study from the University of Toyama, Japan, using data from over 88,000 mother-child pairs in the Japan Environment and Children's Study, has found a link between exclusive breastfeeding for six months and higher rates of food allergies in young children. Children who were exclusively breastfed had an 82% higher risk of food allergies in the first year, 62% at age two, and 54% at age three, with the effect gradually weakening after that. The increased risk was higher in male children. The study also confirmed some benefits of exclusive breastfeeding: a 37% lower risk of asthma in the first year and 19% in the second year, as well as reduced risk of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. Researchers noted that the age at which other foods are introduced may play a role, citing previous studies showing that early exposure to common allergens like eggs and peanuts between four and six months may help prevent allergies. The study raises new questions about the balance between breastfeeding benefits and allergy risks.