Why are allergies rising in Australia? These days there seems to be so many more children and adults who are experiencing allergies, especially food allergies. But why? Why suddenly are allergies on the rise? Why do my toddlers suffer from allergies when I don’t?

This question is on my mind a lot since my youngest toddler is allergic to eggs and pineapple and my eldest is allergic to yeast. Allergic reactions to foods are also more common in children with eczema.

The answer to why allergies are on the rise is that we’re not totally sure. The experts say it is a bit of everything – our western lifestyle and environment, a bit of genetics but not one thing alone is to blame.

Some reasons which get talked about, but are yet to be proven are:

• the hygiene theory says we are too clean and the type of bacteria which is around mother, baby and infant can change our risk of allergies
• we give our babies allergenic foods such as eggs and peanuts later than we used to
• the ways in which foods are processed today being different from before
• allergies developing from using food based products on our skin, such as nut-oil based moisturisers

How do I stop my child from getting allergies?

There are no definite ways to prevent food allergies. There is some advice from the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) who say:

• breastfeed for at least six months
• don’t restrict your diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding, there is no evidence to say this reduces the risk of your baby developing a food allergy
• continue breastfeeding while you are introducing solid foods from 4 to 6 months
• don’t smoke during pregnancy
• avoid exposure to tobacco smoke in the home

Making sure your allergies are actually allergies

If you think you or your toddler is allergic to a food or medicine you should always speak to your doctor about allergy testing. This is a good idea so you can know exactly what is triggering an allergic reaction. Tests used for allergies are generally the skin prick test and a blood test. Allergen challenges may also be used under medical supervision to double check the allergen or to find out if the allergy has been outgrown. This is also a good time to ask your doctor for an allergy action plan which can help you manage allergies in your family.

This post was brought to you and your baby with love from Julia and the Itchy Baby Co. Team x

Disclaimer: Information provided is of a general nature only, and you should always consult your medical professional.