Food allergies in older people: An emerging health problem

The prevalence of food allergy (FA) is steadily increasing worldwide. Literature about FA in older people is very scarce since this is predominantly considered as a pediatric condition. However, FA can persist and/or develop across the life course. Given the growing increase in prevalence as well as their persistence, it can be expected that FA will soon represent an important issue in older people. Several age-related factors may potentially mask FA symptoms and/or mediate them in older people. These include mechanisms related to immune senescence, inflammation, and changes in gastrointestinal function as well as micronutrient deficiencies and the use of multiple medications. A multidimensional approach, taking into account the complexity in older people, it is thus important in the evaluation and management of FA during aging. The main and safest strategy in the management of FA is the allergen avoidance since their ingestion may lead to reactions ranging from mild to life-threatening. However, food restrictions should be carefully evaluated, especially in older people, for the risk of nutritional deficiencies and undernutrition.