Prenatal Diet and the Development of Childhood Allergic Diseases: Food for Thought

Purpose of Review The development of allergic disease is shaped by genetics and the environment, including diet. Many studies suggest a role for maternal diet during pregnancy. In this article, we discuss potential mechanisms by which specific nutrients, particular foods, and dietary patterns may influence allergic disease development and review studies examining the relationship between prenatal diet and the risk of childhood allergy. Recent Finding The combination of in utero exposures and genetic predisposition may contribute to the development of allergic disease by altering immune and organ development. Inflammation predominates in the first and third trimesters whereas the second trimester is characterized by anti-inflammatory and Th2 immune responses. Maternal dietary exposures during pregnancy may interact with inherited genetic risk factors influence immune system development. Summary There are varied results regarding the impact of maternal prenatal diet on the development of childhood allergies. Well-designed randomized controlled studies are needed to clarify this area.