New guidelines to prevent peanut allergies in kids

Experts now say parents should start feeding their children peanuts before their first birthday to reduce the risk of potentially deadly allergies. This recommendation comes after scientists discovered an alarming trend, the prevalence of peanut allergies among children is on the rise.

"It has more than doubled within the last couple of decades," said Dr. Priya Warrier, who is an allergist-immunologist at Family Allergy & Asthma in Lexington. "Back in 1999, the prevalence was at about point-four percent. A more recent national survey in 2010 suggests it's now close to two percent."

As Dr. Warrier explains, this increase was likely born from good intentions - protecting our children.

"Because we had thought at one point that avoiding peanuts would save these children or protect them from a peanut allergy," said Dr. Warrier. "What we are now finding is that the opposite is true, that maybe avoiding peanuts in those early years is actually what is causing them to become allergic."

The time to introduce peanuts depends on your child, explains Dr. Warrier, "So if your child has severe eczema or allergies you really want to get in here and sort this question out between four and six months of age because we want your child to be eating peanut protein."

New research suggests there's an early window where the immune system is still forming, and you can vaccinate your child with regular doses.

Children considered moderate risk – those with mild to moderate eczema who have already started solid foods – do not need an evaluation, the recommendations state. These infants can have peanut-containing foods introduced at home by their parents starting around six months of age. Parents should consult with their child’s pediatrician if they have any questions about how to proceed.

Children with no eczema or egg allergy are considered low risk and can be introduced to peanut-containing foods according to the family’s preference, also around six months.

As Dr. Warrier explained, at such a young age it's important to know the right way to introduce your children to peanut products.

"You can't give them peanuts, you can't use crunchy peanut butter, but you could use the smooth," said Dr. Warrier. "You don't want to give them a big amount because that could choke the child. Instead, provide them with a small amount they could lick, or you could puree it into other foods, so it's easy for the child to consume."

If you still have questions or concerns, Dr. Warrier suggests consulting your pediatrician or allergist to help ease your mind.