It is unexpected.
A recent study suggests that children with “high threshold” peanut allergies might develop long-lasting tolerance by gradually increasing their intake of peanut butter. These children, who can already consume small amounts of peanuts without experiencing severe reactions, could benefit from this method. Dr. Scott Sicherer from Mount Sinai in New York led the research, which offers a potentially safer and more effective treatment for food allergies.
In the study, 73 children aged 4 to 14 with high-threshold peanut allergies participated. One group of children continued avoiding peanuts, while the other group was given increasing doses of peanut butter over a period of 18 months, starting with a small amount. By the end of the study, those receiving peanut butter were consuming a tablespoon daily under medical supervision. The results were encouraging, as all children in the peanut-exposure group were able to tolerate larger quantities without significant allergic reactions.
In comparison, only a small portion of the children who avoided peanuts could tolerate the same amount. To determine the long-term effects, the peanut-exposed children continued eating peanut butter for four months and then stopped for two months. Most of them retained their ability to tolerate peanuts after the break, indicating that the treatment had a lasting impact.
Overall, nearly 70% of the children who underwent the gradual peanut exposure developed a durable tolerance. Dr. Sicherer expressed optimism that this approach could change how food allergies are treated, offering more personalized and effective solutions for children with allergies. This method could improve the lives of many by reducing the severity of allergic reactions.
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