Small and important problems
Parenthood

07 May 2025

Small and important problems

Small and important problems


When we think of allergies, we immediately wish they wouldn't even appear. We avoid them, we try to avoid them and until they do (or don't) appear.


Allergies are quite common in people's lives these days. When we address this issue with the little ones, we want them not to be affected or for them to appear as late as possible. But is it possible for this to happen? We're not sure, but we want to find out.


We tried to find out more about allergies and what influence they have on children's growth and development.


What we realise is that allergies or hypersensitivity arise when the immune system responds inappropriately to contact with a normally harmless substance. These substances can be pollen, dust, a medicine or even the introduction of a new food into the diet. The latest reason for the allergy can usually be foods that include soya protein, shellfish, nuts, cow's milk protein, wheat, among others.


One of the most common allergies is atopic dermatitis or eczema, which is caused by contact with cow's milk protein. We've discovered that around 6 to 8% of allergies are food-related. In the early stages, the immune system is still underdeveloped, so contact with certain unusual proteins can cause adverse reactions and lead to an inadequate immune system response. To this end, certain more aggressive proteins are identified and the immune system retains this information. At the slightest contact, there is this more obvious reaction, such as irritated skin, small rashes or even some gastrointestinal symptoms.


It's said that the incidence of allergies has become less and less frequent, or even delayed, due to the fact that we take more and more care with our hygiene. Such behaviour allows our immune system to be less confronted with microorganisms or bacteria, and there begins to be an unbalance. The immune system becomes hypersensitive and very active to what are normal substances in the environment, such as food proteins.


Another type of allergy is cow's milk protein, which usually appears between 3 and 5 months of a baby's life. The symptoms can be skin, gastrointestinal or respiratory manifestations. The good thing is that this allergy is not one that can last a lifetime.


But, after all, can we prevent, reduce or delay an allergy? Let's analyse in parts.











In the first instance, we can make sure that the allergies of the first years of our little one's life are delayed, or even that they don't manifest themselves to any great extent. The appearance of the first allergies, between the ages of 3 and 5, can be prevented and have a major impact on cases such as dermatitis, which has a high percentage as the first type of allergy to appear.


We can't consider that total protection is possible, but we can always apply measures that are relatively simple and can be applied to most children. However, there is always the possibility that these hypersensitivity reactions come from family atopy. Yes, parents can also be vehicles for transmitting allergies, in the sense that if the parents have a history of allergies, it's very likely that the baby will have them.


Now that we have an idea of these terrible allergies and their influence on children's growth and development, we want to know some prevention tips. Well, we thought we'd share what we found with you here.


  • In terms of the environment, we should pay particular attention to passive exposure to smoke, which is harmful. During pregnancy, we should avoid smoking and look for smoke-free environments. Afterwards, our little one should avoid smoky spaces and opt for outdoor environments;
  • Something we can put into practice right from the start is to realise what allergic risks the baby may be exposed to, taking into consideration the family history;
  • Food is of great importance when it comes to allergies, so naturally we've put together some food tips: in the first 6 months, if possible, breastfeeding should be exclusive, without adding any kind of supplement. If breastfeeding is not possible, hypoallergenic formula is a possible option, as it includes proteins that are easier to digest; the mother's diet during the breastfeeding period - a varied and balanced diet, with not too much of certain foods (e.g. seafood or soya) and where common sense must always be present; new foods must be introduced gradually and thoughtfully (no earlier than 4 months and no later than 6 months of age), we must understand how they are received (between 3 and 4 days) and be patient, as it will be a process of learning and discovery for the little one.


One factor that was frequently mentioned in the research we carried out was that breast milk is a great way of preventing our baby's illness. In addition, a diverse and balanced diet will lead to better milk production. Basically, we are prioritising exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life. If this scenario is not possible, there are now many options for choosing formula milk that is similar to breast milk and can meet the needs of the little one, such as protection or easier digestion.


However, we mustn't forget something very important - we mustn't take any initiative without consulting a health professional, who will be able to guide us and advise us on the most appropriate choice.


The other day, I published another article about some of the natural concerns that parents may have at this stage of their baby's growth and development. It's true that we always want them to be well and that's why this idea of preventing certain allergies is a big factor that influences the little one's well-being. We have to remember the word prevent, we won't be able to protect completely, because it's natural for children's contact with the outside world to cause some reactions, as they still have an immature immune system and, when they have these kinds of a reaction, it ends up developing according to the various environments it encounters.










From this publication comes the idea that we have to look at one day at a time. We can prevent our baby from situations that are within our power to protect, but we must always be attentive to how he reacts and how he learns.


What about you? Speaking of those allergies, how did it go? Any specific situations you'd like to share with us here? What other tips would you add to the group we've shared with you today? How important was prevention? We want to know your experience. We want to know your opinion.  

Leave your comment on this article

Form successfully submitted.
Required field.
Invalid field
Field with maximum character limit
This field doesn't match with the previous one
Field with minimum character limit
There was a submission error, please review the form.

* Required fields.