Early nutrition in the prevention of allergic disease: a survey of general paediatricians and dietitians in Atlantic Canada

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Recommendations for maternal diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding and the timing for the introduction of commonly allergenic foods are changing. OBJECTIVE: To determine how general paediatricians and dietitians in Atlantic Canada counsel families regarding early nutrition as a means of preventing allergic disease. METHODS: In 2010, a survey was distributed to general paediatricians and dietitians in Atlantic Canada. Results were compared with a similar study that was conducted in British Columbia. RESULTS: Most respondents did not advise maternal elimination diets during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Two-thirds of respondents always or regularly advised breastfeeding as a method to prevent atopic dermatitis. The majority of respondents advised delayed introduction of commonly allergenic foods beyond one year of age, especially for infants at risk of developing allergic disease. CONCLUSIONS: There are differences in the practices of general paediatricians and dietitians with respect to early childhood nutrition for the prevention of allergic disease compared with international guidelines.