The number of children suffering from food allergies is increasing worldwide. Parents and health professionals are increasingly looking for preventive measures to prevent these allergies. In this context, probiotics are increasingly coming into focus. Can probiotics really help prevent food allergies in children, or is this more of a myth? In this article, we take a look at the scientific evidence and the potential benefits of using probiotics for allergy prevention.
What are food allergies and how do they arise?
Food allergies occur when the immune system perceives harmless proteins in food as a threat and triggers an excessive defensive reaction. This leads to symptoms such as skin rashes, breathing problems, gastrointestinal complaints or even severe anaphylactic reactions.
A key factor in the development of allergies is the composition of the microbiome in the gut. Studies show that an unbalanced microbiome in the first years of life can increase the risk of developing allergies.
The influence of probiotics on the microbiome
Probiotics are live microorganisms that have a positive influence on the intestinal flora. They promote a healthy balance of microbes in the intestine by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria and suppressing potentially harmful bacteria. This strengthens the intestinal barrier and modulates the immune system, which can reduce the risk of inflammatory reactions and allergic reactions.
Scientific evidence on the prevention of food allergies through probiotics
- Pregnancy and Early Childhood
Several studies are investigating the effects of probiotics in pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. The hypothesis is that early modulation of the child's microbiome by the mother can reduce the risk of allergies. A meta-analysis of several randomized controlled trials suggests that the administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus during pregnancy and breastfeeding can reduce the risk of developing eczema and possibly also food allergies.
- Probiotics in Infants
There is also evidence that the administration of probiotics in the first months of life promotes the development of a tolerant immune response. Infants with a high risk of allergies - for example due to a family history - could particularly benefit from probiotic supplementation. However, the effectiveness varies greatly depending on the probiotic strain used and the dosage.
limits and uncertainties
- Different effectiveness of the strains
Not all probiotics are equally effective. The positive effects depend heavily on the exact type of bacteria and their specific properties. Some studies show promising results, while others find no significant effect. Current studies show that Lactobacillus paracasei in particular is effective against food allergies.
- Duration and dosage
The optimal duration and dosage for administering probiotics to prevent food allergies are currently unclear. The results vary depending on the study, and there is still no uniform approach to supplementation. It is important that the probiotics have actually been clinically tested in this concentration.
Conclusion: Myth or reality?
The idea that probiotics can help prevent food allergies in children has a solid scientific basis, but not all probiotics are equally effective for food allergies. While some studies show promising results, comprehensive long-term studies clearly demonstrating benefits are lacking.
For parents who want to reduce the risk of food allergies in their children, the use of probiotics can be a supportive measure - especially if there is an increased risk of allergies. However, probiotics should always be used in consultation with a pediatrician to discuss possible risks and the correct dosage. Research in this area is continuing to develop, and it remains exciting to see what role probiotics will play in allergy prevention in the future.
