INTRODUÇÃO PRECOCE DE ALIMENTOS ALERGÊNICOS NA DIETA INFANTIL: UMA REVISÃO SOBRE A PREVENÇÃO DE ALERGIAS ALIMENTARES

Abstract

This article aimed to investigate whether the early introduction of allergenic foods, starting at six months of age, can help prevent the development of food allergies in children. The methodology was based on a bibliographic review of national and international academic articles available in databases such as BVS, LILACS, BIREME, SciELO, and PubMed. During complementary feeding, many parents avoid offering potentially allergenic foods—such as cow's milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, and seafood—due to fear of adverse reactions. However, recent scientific evidence suggests that the gradual and controlled introduction of these foods, under professional guidance, may promote immune tolerance. Early exposure to allergenic proteins stimulates the maturation of the child's immune system, particularly through the induction of oral tolerance. Therefore, this practice can significantly reduce the risk of developing food allergies in the future. It is concluded that early introduction, when safely managed, represents an effective strategy in allergy prevention, highlighting the importance of health professionals in guiding caregivers through this process.