In Britain, researchers introduced small amounts of peanut flour into the diet of children suffering with peanut allergies. After six months of this therapy, more than 80 percent of the children could eat a handful of peanuts without experiencing a reaction. The peanut flour helped to build tolerance to the allergen. While this news is promising, researchers warn that parents should not try this therapy at home. The children who participated in this study were in a very controlled environment with doctors on the ready to respond to any reactions.
Peanut is the most prevalent of the various food allergies and the number of people developing the allergy is growing with about 1 in 50 children affected. Food allergies are responsible for more than 200,000 emergency room visits each year. Because of their inexperience in dealing with their allergy, children are at the greatest risk. Cross-contact must be carefully avoided and emergency response plans must be in place.
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury due to a food allergy, we encourage you to read more about food allergy cases.