Early contact with allergens and the development of allergies.

The first years of life are of major importance in the “allergic march”. The passage of allergens from mother to foetus during pregnancy most likely involves foods rather than other sorts of allergens. Still, immunological changes that are found in cord blood are not of long-term value. When nursing, mothers should avoid peanuts and peanut-containing foods, especially if the infant has any skin lesions. Concerning the infant, it is known that the application of creams containing peanuts on an infant’s skin can induce peanut allergy. Furthermore, especially if the baby is at risk for atopy, breast feeding or, when that is not being done, the use extensive hydrolisate formulas, as well as delayed introduction of new foods, is recommended. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]