Does maternal diet during pregnancy and lactation affect allergy outcomes in their offspring? A systematic review of food based approaches

Background Dietary strategies may prevent childhood allergies and reduce the burden of disease. We undertook this sys- tematic review to evaluate the relationship between maternal diet and childhood allergies. Methods in the prevalence of eczema and asthma in the offspring of women on diets free from common food allergens during pregnancy. One study (with multiple inter- ventions) reported a lower rate of sensitisation in the intervention group at all ages followed up. Of the pro- spective cohorts only a few associations were reported between maternal dietary intake and development of allergy considering the overall number that were investi- gated. Of the results that were consistent, maternal diet- ary patterns were associated with less risk of allergic disease in offspring included 'Mediterranean' dietary pat- terns and diets rich in fruits and vegetables, fish and vitamin D containing foods. Foods associated with higher risk include vegetable oils and margarine, nuts and fast food. Studies differed in terms of the atopic potential of the participants and the final outcomes were not standardised in terms of age at follow up or diagnosis.