Breast Feeding may protect your Baby against some Allergies

The American Academy of Pediatrics says that although breast-feeding still is best, recommendations for mothers and babies to avoid certain foods early on are not supported by research.

In the January issue of the journal Pediatrics, the AAP updates its August 2000 suggestions. The new guidelines say:

Breast-feeding exclusively for at least four months lessens the risk of rashes and allergy to cow’s milk.

Breast-feeding for at least three months protects against wheezing in babies, but whether it prevents asthma in older children is unclear.

There is little to no evidence to recommend:

Avoiding peanuts or other foods during pregnancy or while nursing.

Feeding soy-based or hypoallergenic formulas to babies who are not solely breast-fed.

Delaying the introduction of foods such as eggs, fish or peanut butter to babies eating solid foods, which should begin at 4 to 6 months.