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Nuts, vegetables, fruits, and protein dietary pattern during pregnancy is inversely associated with risk of childhood allergies: a case–control study

Summary

This study found that pregnant women who ate more nuts, vegetables, fruits, and protein had children with significantly lower rates of allergies. The research compared the diets of mothers whose children developed allergies to mothers of allergy-free children and discovered that higher consumption of omega-3 fatty acids and folic acid during pregnancy was linked to healthier immune development. The findings suggest that eating a nutrient-rich diet during pregnancy may help protect babies from developing allergies and other immune-related conditions.

Background

Allergic diseases are prevalent chronic conditions in children with significant health and economic impacts. Previous research suggests that a healthy, high-quality diet during pregnancy may prevent allergic diseases in offspring. This study investigated the relationship between major dietary patterns during pregnancy and allergies in children under one year of age.

Objective

To examine the potential relationship between major dietary patterns during pregnancy and allergies in children under one year of age in Khuzestan Province, Iran. The study aimed to identify which dietary patterns may reduce the risk of childhood allergic diseases.

Results

Three major dietary patterns were identified accounting for 33.25% cumulative variance. The fourth quartile of the ‘Nuts, vegetables, fruits, and protein’ dietary pattern was significantly associated with decreased childhood allergy risk (crude OR: 0.214, 95% CI = 0.068–0.679; adjusted OR: 0.108, 95% CI = 0.019–0.613). Mothers of healthy children had significantly higher intakes of omega-3 fatty acids and folic acid during pregnancy.

Conclusion

A maternal dietary pattern rich in nuts, vegetables, fruits, and protein during pregnancy may reduce the risk of allergic diseases in offspring. The findings suggest that maintaining a healthy diet rich in nutrients and anti-inflammatory compounds during pregnancy may benefit allergy prevention in children. Prospective research and clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.
  • Published in:Scientific Reports,
  • Study Type:Case-Control Study,
  • Source: PMID: 38191604, DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-51488-8
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