Related Experiment Video

Updated: Aug 25, 2026

Methodology for Sputum Induction and Laboratory Processing
13:28

Methodology for Sputum Induction and Laboratory Processing

Published on: December 17, 2017

The introduction of solids in relation to asthma and eczema

A Zutavern1, E von Mutius, J Harris

  • 1Dr von Haunersches Kinderspital (University Children's Hospital), Department of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, Imperial College of Science and Technology, National Heart and Lung Institute, London, UK. anne.zutavern@kk-i.med.uni-muenchen.de

Archives of Disease in Childhood
|March 23, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Delayed introduction of solids does not prevent asthma or allergies in children. In fact, delaying egg and milk introduction may increase eczema risk, contradicting current feeding guidelines.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Current feeding guidelines suggest delaying solid food introduction to prevent childhood asthma and allergies.
  • This recommendation is based on limited scientific evidence.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate if the late introduction of solid foods offers protection against the development of asthma, eczema, and atopy in children.
  • To evaluate the association between the timing of solid food introduction and the incidence of allergic diseases.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective cohort study followed 642 children from birth to 5.5 years of age.
  • Introduction of solids was assessed retrospectively at age 1 year.
  • Outcomes included doctor-diagnosed eczema, atopy (via skin prick tests), preschool wheezing, and transient wheezing, all assessed at age 5-5.5 years.

Main Results:

  • No protective effect of late solid introduction was found for preschool wheezing, transient wheezing, atopy, or eczema.
  • Late introduction of egg and milk was significantly associated with an increased risk of eczema.
  • Late egg introduction showed a non-significant trend towards increased risk of preschool wheezing.

Conclusions:

  • The study findings do not support current feeding guidelines recommending delayed solid introduction for allergy prevention.
  • Evidence suggests that delaying certain solids like egg and milk might increase the risk of eczema.
  • Further research is needed to clarify optimal infant feeding practices for allergy prevention.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Noninvasive Sampling of Mucosal Lining Fluid for the Quantification of In Vivo Upper Airway Immune-mediator Levels05:31

Noninvasive Sampling of Mucosal Lining Fluid for the Quantification of In Vivo Upper Airway Immune-mediator Levels

Published on: August 7, 2017

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma14:39

Bronchial Thermoplasty: A Novel Therapeutic Approach to Severe Asthma

Published on: November 4, 2010

Related Concept Videos

Asthma I: Introduction01:28

Asthma I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
Asthma-I: Introduction01:29

Asthma-I: Introduction

Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management01:20

Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management

Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations01:13

Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations

Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...
Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications01:24

Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications

Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification01:26

Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification

Asthma is a prevalent chronic respiratory condition marked by inflammation and hyperresponsiveness of the airways. Its pathophysiology involves complex interactions among inflammatory pathways, immune responses, and neural mechanisms.
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include: