Alimentation des premiers mois de vie et prévention de l’allergie

Allergic diseases depend on a complex interaction between genetic factors, environmental exposure to allergens and gut microbiota. Allergy results from immune reactions triggered by allergens in the digestive or in the respiratory tract. The frequency and severity of allergy are increasing. Preventive measures derive from mechanisms implicated in the development of allergy. The easiest intervention process is the reduction of the allergenic load. Following birth, the primary prevention strategy relies first on the detection of at-risk newborns, that is, with allergic first degree relatives. In this targeted population, as well as for the general population, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for 4–6 months. In the absence of breastfeeding, an hydrolyzed formula is suggested for which foods without allergenicity can be used for feeding at-risk newborns. Complementary feeding should not be started before the age of 4–6 months, which seems partially efficacious on early allergy. Probiotics, prebiotics as well as n-3 fatty acids have not yet demonstrated any definitive protective effect.