It is my understanding (please correct me if I'm wrong) that the longer
children are protected from common allergens, the less likely they are
to develop sensitivities or allergies to them.  Babies can be sensitized
in the womb or while breastfeeding.  Peanuts are highly allergenic, thus
the advice to avoid them while pregnant and nursing lest one cause the
baby to be exposed and sensitized to the allergen, especially for a baby
with a family history of allergies.  Introducing peanuts earlier would
not allow a baby to build up a tolerance, but might trigger a
sensitivity or allergy.

It is also my understanding that specific allergies are not genetically
transmitted, but rather the tendency to become allergic.  Thus a child
with a parent who is allergic to animals might develop food allergies
instead.  Thankfully, breastfeeding offers powerful protection.  I'm
hoping that my girls, breastfed for ~4 1/2 years each, will avoid my
husband's allergies.  Ironically, he is the one of the two of us who was
breastfed (although for a relatively short time).


Leslie White
Deep River  Ontario

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