Food Allergies And Why Are There So Many?

2023 Author: Lynn Laird | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 21:10

According to figures from the National Food Safety Agency (ANSES), food allergies have doubled over the past five years while becoming disabling. In question, the change in our eating habits. What's more, the latest studies from ANSES show that 3.5% of adults and around 8% of children have allergies due to foods, such as nuts, eggs and dairy products. In 1970, only 1% of the population was affected, and five years ago, patients were half as numerous as today. So how do you explain this spectacular growth?

Are the number of food allergies on the rise?

To explain the impressive increase in unpleasant reactions to food, scientists put forward several reasons, including breastfeeding, which has declined considerably. Believe it or not, there are many studies attributing anti-allergenic properties to breast milk. Furthermore, the dietary diversification of infants has become too early. According to a Finnish study, the introduction of 4 foods before the age of 4 months would multiply by 3 the risk of eczema, while only milk is essential before the age of 6 months.

The evolution of the food industry and the many ready-made meals rich in potential allergens, additives of a protein nature such as egg white, milk powder, casein, lupine flour, can also increase the various reactions of severe allergies.