Fish in Infant Diet May Be Linked to Decreased Risk of Eczema

Fish in Infant Diet May Be Linked to Decreased Risk of Eczema

Eczema is a type of inflammation of the skin. Flare-ups can cause patches of red, dry, itchy skin. While eczema rarely causes severe problems, it can be uncomfortable and create embarrassing patches. Genetic factors play a large role in who develops eczema, but avoiding irritants can help prevent flare-ups. In infants, the risk of eczema may be altered by exposure to pets and certain foods. The time period that certain foods are introduced may also play a role.

A study in Sweden investigated potential patterns between introduction of irritants and foods and the risk of eczema in infants 1 year old. The study, published in Archives of Disease in Childhood, found that early introduction of fish was associated with decreased risk of eczema.

About the Study

The prospective observational study collected information from questionnaires sent to 8,176 families in Sweden. The families were asked about development of eczema, food allergies, pets, types of food, and the time at which the infants were introduced to these. The results from the questionnarie found that 20.9% of the infants included had developed eczema by 12 months.

Of all the potential irritants studied, only fish was associated with a decreased risk of developing eczema. This was found in infants that had fish introduced by nine months of age.

How Does this Affect You?

This study is an observational study. This means that investigators only observe and record information but do not interfere. As a result, this study cannot confirm a cause and effect relationship. Instead, it can only suggest that a link may exist. The connection found here does not mean that you should give your child fish to avoid eczema, but it creates information to add to future studies. Information from several studies like this will help doctor's develop nutrition guidelines. Talk to your doctor about when to introduce different solid foods to your baby.

Resources

American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology
http://www.aaaai.org/
The National Eczema Society
http://www.eczema.org/

Sources:

Alm B, Aberg N, Erdes L, et al. Early introduction of fish decreases the risk of eczema in infants. Arch Dis Child. 2009 Jan;94(1):11-5.
Last reviewed 3/9/2010 by Brian P. Randall, MD

EBSCO Information Services is fully accredited by URAC. URAC is an independent, nonprofit health care accrediting organization dedicated to promoting health care quality through accreditation, certification and commendation.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.

Home |Terms and Conditions |Concerned About Privacy? |Accessibility |Careers |For Employers and Medical Plan Providers

You may also be looking for: CVS/pharmacy | MinuteClinic | Specialty Pharmacy | SilverScript | Accordant