This study’s goal establishes what is not known about food allergies—a systematic review of the literature makes that possible.

There is very little knowledge about this medical problem, the authors say.

For parents whose children clearly react to specific foods, they and the child’s doctor likely have to work with symptom management.

What Can You Do?

This finding calls for parents to take great notes about what the child reacted to and any other specifics which may help the doctor.

Foods reflect cultures. A child who grows up in the South may be more exposed to some foods than a child growing up in the Northeast. The child’s doctor likely will be aware of what local or regional favorites tend to be problematic for kids. You may need to make adjustments to the foods you buy or serve.

JAMA

Citation:JAMA. 2010;303(18):1848-1856.