Those who grew up with a dog are less likely to be allergic to eggs, milk and nuts, and cats reduce the risk of allergies to eggs, wheat and soy
Japanese scientists found that children who had a pet when they were young had a 15 percent lower risk of food allergy, the British newspaper “Daily Mail” reported. According to the tabloid, the same applies if there was an animal in the house during the mother’s pregnancy.
Those raised with a dog are less likely to be allergic to eggs, milk and nuts, and cats reduce the risk of allergies to eggs, wheat and soy.
As 10 percent of children suffer from food sensitivities, and the number is increasing, scientists hope to offer a new way to curb the problem.
The team, led by Dr. Hisao Okabe of Fukushima Medical University, analyzed data on 65,000 children followed until they were three years old.
A leading theory for the increase in allergies is the hygienic theory, according to which people in a large part of the world live in too clean conditions. Microorganisms teach the immune system to distinguish harmless from harmful irritants.
Pets may prevent food allergies by boosting the microbiome. They are known to increase the good bacteria and children become less vulnerable.
