Why Is It So Popular to Be Allergic to Peanuts?
Written by Umme Rokshana
The most common question asked throughout school before organizing a food activity is if anyone is allergic to peanuts, but why peanuts especially and not any other type of food?
The rise in peanut allergies can be characterized by a combination of genetic, environmental, and societal factors. Genetically, some people tend to develop allergies. When these individuals are exposed to peanuts early in life, their immune systems may mistakenly identify peanut proteins as harmful invaders. This triggers an immune response, leading to the development of an allergy.
However, genetics alone doesn't explain this surge in peanut allergies. The "hygiene hypothesis" suggests that modern, ultra-clean living environments reduce children's exposure to bacteria and other pathogens, leading to a less robust immune system. Without enough "real" threats to fight, the immune system may overreact to harmless substances like peanut proteins. You can say that living a comfortable life could give you the possibility of having a vulnerability.
Moreover, societal practices around food introduction could also play a role. In the past, parents were advised to delay introducing allergenic foods like peanuts to their children, which may be a factor in the increased risk of developing allergies. Sure, it’s to protect their children, but recent studies, like the LEAP (Learning Early About Peanut Allergy) trial, have shown that early introduction of peanuts to at-risk infants can reduce the likelihood of developing a peanut allergy.
Lastly, peanuts themselves are interesting when it comes to how they trigger allergic reactions. The proteins in peanuts are highly stable, meaning they resist breakdown by heat or stomach acids, making it easier for the immune system to recognize and respond to them. Also, peanut allergies tend to be very persistent, which has led to heightened awareness and diagnosis throughout time.
Understanding the reasons behind the rise in peanut allergies is crucial for developing better prevention strategies. As research continues, we may see new approaches that can help reduce the currency and severity of this common allergy.
References
https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/peanut/
Written by Umme Rokshana from MEDILOQUY