Child allergies can be a major source of concern for parents, especially when they are severe.

Both genetic and environmental factors can contribute to allergies, but many parents wonder if they can do anything during pregnancy to help prevent or reduce the likelihood of their child developing allergies. One place to start is with the mother’s diet during pregnancy, as research has suggested that some dietary choices may impact the risk of childhood allergies.

Understanding Allergies

Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a harmless substance, such as pollen, dust, or food.

This overreaction can lead to a range of symptoms, from mild (like sneezing and a runny nose or hives) to severe (like anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that can cause difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and other symptoms).

The exact causes of allergies are not completely understood, but it is thought that both genetics and environmental factors play a role.

Some people may be more genetically predisposed to developing allergies, but exposure to certain allergens (especially during key developmental periods like infancy) may also be a factor.

Preventing Allergies during Pregnancy

While there is no surefire way to prevent allergies, there are some steps expectant mothers can take during pregnancy to help reduce their child’s risk. One area to pay attention to is diet.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

One dietary factor that has been linked to a lower risk of childhood allergies is the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are found in fatty fish (like salmon), flaxseed oil, chia seeds, and walnuts, among other foods.

Omega-3s are thought to help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, which may make them beneficial for preventing allergies.

In one study published in the journal Allergy in 2008, pregnant women who consumed fish oil (which contains high amounts of omega-3s) had children with a lower risk of allergies, wheezing, and asthma at age three.

However, other studies have produced mixed results, so more research is needed to confirm the link between omega-3s and allergy prevention.

Vitamin D

Another nutrient that may play a role in allergy prevention is vitamin D. This essential vitamin is found in few foods (like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified milk), but it can also be produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight.

Some studies have shown that low levels of vitamin D in pregnant women and young children are associated with a higher risk of allergies and asthma. However, other studies have produced conflicting or inconclusive results.

While more research is needed, it is generally a good idea for pregnant women to get enough vitamin D through a combination of sunlight exposure (in safe amounts) and dietary sources, or supplements if needed (under the guidance of a healthcare provider).

Probiotics

Probiotics, which are “friendly” bacteria that live in the gut, have been linked to a range of health benefits, including a lower risk of allergies.

Some studies have shown that taking probiotics during pregnancy may help reduce the risk of eczema in infants.

Probiotics can be consumed through dietary sources (like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut) or supplements. However, it is important to note that further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of probiotics for allergy prevention.

Foods to Avoid

While increasing the intake of certain nutrients may be helpful for preventing allergies, there are also some foods that pregnant women may want to limit or avoid to reduce the risk of allergies in their children.

Some research has suggested that maternal consumption of high-allergen foods (such as peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish) during pregnancy may increase the risk of peanut allergy and other food allergies in children.

However, other studies have produced conflicting results, and recommendations on this topic continue to evolve.

Currently, most healthcare providers do not recommend avoiding or restricting any specific foods during pregnancy unless the mother has a known allergy or other medical condition that necessitates it.

However, each mother should consult with her healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for her specific needs.

The Bottom Line

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent allergies, expectant mothers can take steps to help reduce the risk for their child.

Paying attention to diet during pregnancy, including consuming foods high in omega-3s and vitamin D and potentially incorporating probiotics, may be one of these steps. However, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between diet during pregnancy and the risk of childhood allergies.