Breast-feeding may not cut allergy risk

Washington DC: A new study has revealed that breast is best, but it might not protect from allergies.

Pregnant women and new mothers receive many messages regarding the benefits of exclusive breastfeeding for babies in the first year of life. Breastfeeding is thought to reduce the risk of allergic rhinitis (hay fever), asthma, food allergies and eczema in children.

According to a new study presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI) Annual Scientific Meeting, no significant difference in allergies were found between children who were ever breast fed versus those formula fed.

"We found both groups had similar numbers of kids with hay fever," said lead author Quindelyn Cook, adding "We also found both groups had similar numbers of kids with asthma, eczema and food allergy."

"We know breastfeeding is good for babies, and new mothers should continue to breastfeed," said allergist Christina Ciaccio, MD, study author and ACAAI Fellow. "Larger studies need to be done to determine how these results might apply to the larger population."