Brenda Khan
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition in babies, causing dry, itchy, and inflamed patches of skin. While dietary choices do not cause eczema, certain foods may trigger flare-ups in infants with existing allergies or sensitivities. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before making any dietary changes, especially for infants with allergies or medical conditions. Dietary changes for infants with eczema include incorporating anti-inflammatory and antioxidant-rich foods, providing proper hydration, and avoiding trigger foods such as dairy, eggs, and peanuts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Dietary changes | Can help manage symptoms and provide relief |
| Dietary restrictions | Dairy, eggs, citrus fruits, processed sugary snacks, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, soy, and fish |
| Dietary recommendations | Anti-inflammatory foods, fatty fish (salmon, herring), fish oil supplements, plant-based flavonoids, colourful fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, hydrating foods, probiotics, antioxidants, iron-rich foods |
| Elimination diet | Remove potential triggers and add them back slowly to monitor symptoms |
| Dietary considerations | Consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian, ensure proper nutrition and hydration |
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What You'll Learn
Include anti-inflammatory foods and probiotics
While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for eczema, certain foods may help reduce symptoms such as itching and inflammation. For example, fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that can protect against oxidative stress, cell damage, and inflammation. Increasing your intake of probiotics through fermented foods or supplements may also be helpful.
Anti-inflammatory foods
Anti-inflammatory foods may help lower inflammation in the body. There is no single anti-inflammatory diet, as a particular food may cause inflammation in one person but not another. However, an anti-inflammatory diet generally involves eliminating foods that increase inflammation and eating fiber-rich foods. Heavily processed foods and simple sugars (i.e. sugary beverages) are limited in this food plan. An example of an anti-inflammatory food is fatty fish, such as salmon and herring, which contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Quercetin is another example of an anti-inflammatory compound, which is found in fruits and vegetables.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live cultures that affect gut bacteria and help support a strong immune system. Probiotics may also maintain the complete barrier function of the skin and reduce bacterial infection opportunities. A review of 13 studies concluded that certain strains of probiotics were effective at reducing eczema severity in children. These strains included Lactobacillus fermentum and Lactobacillus salivarius. However, it is important to note that not all probiotics are effective for the treatment of eczema, and successful treatment is dependent on the species of probiotics, the colonization site in the gastrointestinal tract, and the roles of the different species. The dose of additional probiotics may also be an influencing factor.
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Avoid common allergens like dairy, eggs, and nuts
It is always best to speak with a healthcare professional before eliminating foods from your child's diet. That being said, dairy, eggs, and nuts are common allergens that can trigger eczema flare-ups in infants.
Dairy products, including milk, yogurt, and cheese, are common allergens for young children. In fact, an allergy to cow's milk is the most common food allergy in this age group. Infants with eczema are six times more likely to have a cow's milk allergy by the time they are 12 months old. If your child has an allergy to dairy, there are several plant-based milk alternatives available, including soy milk, almond milk, and cashew milk. However, be sure to check the ingredient lists carefully, as some of these products are high in calories and added sugar.
Eggs are another common allergen. Some children with egg allergies may be able to tolerate them in baked form. If your child has an egg allergy, it is important to check ingredient lists carefully, as eggs are often used in baked goods, mayonnaise, and other sauces, as well as being a common breakfast food.
Finally, nuts, especially tree nuts, can be a serious allergen for young children, with severe reactions being associated with severe cases of eczema. Tree nuts include almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, and pecans, among others. If your child has a nut allergy, it is important to be vigilant about checking ingredient lists and food preparation methods, as nuts are often used in baked goods and Asian cuisine, and may also be used in food manufacturing facilities that process other types of food.
While eliminating these common allergens may help reduce eczema symptoms in some children, it is important to remember that every child's experience is different, and it is always best to consult a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your child's diet.
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Opt for natural foods with complex carbs
When it comes to managing your infant's eczema, it's important to remember that dietary changes can be beneficial, but it's always best to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making any significant adjustments. They can help you navigate potential food allergies or sensitivities and ensure your baby's nutritional needs are met. That said, opting for natural foods with complex carbohydrates can be a great way to reduce eczema flares and promote overall health.
Complex carbohydrates are found in natural, whole food sources and provide a steady release of energy throughout the day. They are an essential part of a healthy, well-balanced diet, which is crucial for your child's skin, body, and mind. By choosing natural foods with complex carbs, you can avoid the negative impact of processed foods and simple sugars, which can lead to inflammation and potentially trigger eczema flare-ups.
So, what are some good sources of complex carbohydrates? Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, oats, and barley, are excellent options. These unprocessed grains retain their nutritional value and provide a range of vitamins, minerals, and fibre, all of which contribute to a healthy body and strong immune system. Legumes, like beans, lentils, and chickpeas, also fall into this category and offer similar nutritional benefits.
In addition to choosing complex carbs, it's important to ensure your infant's diet includes a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables. These are rich in antioxidants, which protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Probiotic-rich foods, such as fermented foods or yoghurt, are also beneficial for promoting a healthy gut and supporting the immune system, which can help manage eczema.
Remember, while dietary changes can be helpful, eczema is influenced by various factors, including environmental, developmental, and emotional ones. Therefore, it's essential to work with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach for your infant's specific needs.
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Identify and eliminate trigger foods
It is important to identify and eliminate trigger foods to minimise flare-ups. While dietary choices do not cause eczema, certain foods can worsen flares for some people. Eliminating these foods can reduce the itch and discomfort of an eczema rash.
Firstly, it is important to consult a doctor or a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your baby's diet, especially if your baby has existing allergies or medical conditions. Your doctor can guide you towards the real cause through tests like elimination diets, food challenges, and skin testing.
If your baby is on formula milk, it is important to note that an allergy to cow's milk is the most common food allergy in young children. Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) can be an important trigger for eczema in young infants. Signs of CMPA can include resistant eczema, weight loss, diarrhoea, vomiting, bloating, and spitting up. If you suspect cow's milk might be playing a role, you should discuss doing a 4-week trial of replacing cow's milk formula with either a low-allergenic "extensively hydrolyzed protein" formula or an "amino-acid-based formula".
Other common dietary triggers in young children are eggs, peanuts, soy, nuts, and fish. Dairy products, particularly cow's milk, are also common triggers for eczema. It is important to be cautious with allergenic foods such as peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, soy, and fish.
It is recommended to only eliminate one food at a time. Use a food diary to keep track of what you get rid of and the changes that it brings. It is also recommended to take photographs of your child's skin at the beginning of the elimination diet, two weeks into the diet, at the four-week conclusion of the diet, and two days after reintroducing the food.
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Consult a doctor or dietitian for guidance
Consulting a doctor or dietitian is crucial when making dietary changes to manage your infant's eczema. They can provide tailored guidance and ensure that any dietary adjustments meet your baby's nutritional needs and are safe. Here are some reasons why seeking professional advice is essential:
Dietary Assessment and Planning:
Paediatricians or dietitians can help assess your baby's dietary needs and current eating patterns. They will consider factors such as your baby's overall health, growth, and development to create a personalised plan. This plan will ensure your baby receives adequate nutrition while managing eczema symptoms.
Allergy Testing and Management:
Doctors can perform allergy tests to identify specific food triggers for your baby's eczema. They can guide you in interpreting allergy test results and provide advice on managing and preventing allergic reactions. This is especially important if there is a family history of allergies or if your baby has multiple allergies.
Safe Introduction of Solid Foods:
If your baby is starting solid foods, a paediatrician can provide guidance on the appropriate timing and types of foods to introduce. They can advise on potentially allergenic foods, such as peanuts, eggs, and dairy, and help you navigate the process safely while monitoring for any signs of eczema flare-ups.
Monitoring and Adjusting the Diet:
Doctors and dietitians can help you monitor your baby's response to dietary changes over time. They will assess whether the dietary adjustments are effective in reducing eczema symptoms and make any necessary tweaks to ensure the diet remains balanced and nutritionally adequate. This may involve periodically re-introducing certain foods to test for tolerance.
Guidance on Specific Diets:
Certain diets, such as the baby eczema diet or an elimination diet, may be recommended by your doctor or dietitian. They can guide you on the specifics of these diets, ensuring they are followed correctly and safely. For example, they can advise on appropriate food substitutions and provide resources for meal planning.
In summary, consulting a doctor or dietitian is essential for safely and effectively managing your infant's eczema through dietary modifications. They will ensure that your baby receives the necessary nutrients for growth and development while helping to alleviate eczema symptoms. Remember, dietary changes should always be made under professional supervision to avoid any potential health risks.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no one-size-fits-all diet for infants with eczema. However, certain dietary changes can help manage the symptoms. It is recommended to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian to ensure the diet aligns with your baby's specific needs and medical history.
Common dietary triggers in young children with eczema are cow's milk, eggs, peanuts, soy, nuts, and fish. Dairy products, particularly cow's milk, are also a common trigger for eczema. It is important to identify and avoid these trigger foods to minimize flare-ups.
Including more foods rich in antioxidants and probiotics in your infant's diet could be beneficial for eczema. Opting for anti-inflammatory foods and providing proper hydration can also help support your baby's skin health and overall well-being.
