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Food allergies in children affect nutrient intake and growth
Lynn Christie1, R Jean Hine, James G Parker
1Department of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, University of Arkansas Medical Sciences and Arkansas Children's Hospital, Little Rock 72202,USA. christielynn@uams.edu
Journal of the American Dietetic Association
|November 27, 2002
Summary
Children with multiple food allergies may experience poorer growth and nutrient intake, particularly for calcium and vitamin D. Annual nutrition assessments are recommended for children with food allergies.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Allergy and Immunology
- Growth and Development
Background:
- Food allergies affect children's growth and nutrient intake.
- Specific allergens and dietary restrictions can impact nutritional status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of specific food allergies and related variables on the growth and nutrient intake of children.
- To identify risk factors for inadequate nutrient consumption in this population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving 98 children with food allergies and 99 controls.
- Growth parameters (height, weight, BMI) and nutrient intakes (3-day diet records) were assessed.
- Questionnaires gathered data on food allergy details and other variables.
Main Results:
- Children with multiple food allergies had lower height-for-age percentiles.
- Over 25% of children in both groups had inadequate intake of calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin E.
- Cow's milk allergy and multiple food allergies were associated with lower calcium intake.
- Nutrition counseling and fortified beverages improved calcium and vitamin D intake.
Conclusions:
- Annual nutrition assessments are crucial for children with food allergies to prevent growth issues and nutrient deficiencies.
- Children with milk allergies or multiple food allergies are at higher risk.
- Targeted nutrition education and medical nutrition therapy protocols are needed.