Have you noticed that your bub’s skin is starting to look a little … angry?
Bit of a rash on their cheeks?
Maybe some cradle cap going on?
What could be causing this?
Well, there is actually a chance that it may be the result of an ALLERGY.
In the last 15 years or so, researchers have become more aware that things that go into mum’s mouth can reach bub via breastmilk, and if bub has a little sensitivity to that substance, they may start showing signs of allergy in the form of eczema, dryness or a rash on their cheeks, body or scalp.
This can be quite distressing for parents as it can look quite unpleasant, and it can be quite unpleasant for bub as it can be irritating or itchy!
In fact, some research has indicated that unsettled babies with allergy indicators can have improvements in their behaviour after removing that offending substance!
Now full disclaimer here; if you are breastfeeding, making dramatic change to your diet is best done with the support of your health professional. Trials of food elimination are generally safe to do for a short period, but you need to make sure that you are still getting adequate nutrition.
Essentially, if you suspect a bit of a food sensitivity, be sure to discuss this with your Child Health Nurse or Health Professional first!
Some useful links and references:
Breastfeeding and food sensitivities | Australian Breastfeeding Association.
Hill, D. J., Roy, N., Heine, R. G., Hosking, C. S., Francis, D. E., Brown, J., … Carlin, J. B. (2005). Effect of a low-allergen maternal diet on colic among breastfed infants: A randomized, controlled trial. Pediatrics, 116(5).
Kramer, M. S. (2011). Breastfeeding and allergy: The evidence. Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism, 59(SUPPL. 1), 20–26.
Meyer, R., Chebar Lozinsky, A., Fleischer, D. M., Vieira, M. C., Du Toit, G., Vandenplas, Y., … Venter, C. (2020). Diagnosis and management of Non‐IgE gastrointestinal allergies in breastfed infants—An EAACI Position Paper. Allergy, 75(1), 14–32.
Montalto, G., Custro, N., Notarbartlo, A., Carroccio, A., Cavataio, F., D’amico, D., … Iacono, G. (2000). Evidence of very delayed clinical reactions to cow’s milk in cow’s milk-intolerant patients. Allergy, 55(6), 574–579.
Vadas, P., Wai, Y., Burks, W., & Perelman, B. (2001). Detection of peanut allergens in breast milk of lactating women. Journal of the American Medical Association, 285(13), 1746–1748.
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