A number of recent studies have provided conflicting evidence for the benefits of breastfeeding in allergy protection and prevention. A most recent UK study of 1924 children shows no difference between exclusive breastfeeding to 6 months and breastfeeding for only 3 months in high risk atopic children. Even the early introduction or avoidance of allergenic foods doesn’t seem to make any significant difference to the pattern of allergy development in asthma, eczema and rhintis.
Reference: Nwaru B, Craig L, Allan K et al. Breastfeeding and introduction of complementary foods during infancy in relation to the risk of asthma and atopic diseases up to 10 years. Clin Exp Allergy 2013 (43) 1263-1273
