Prevention of Peanut Allergy with Early Introduction
When scientists first proposed the idea that introducing peanuts early could actually prevent peanut allergy, it was considered radical—even risky. After all, for decades, parents were told to avoid peanuts in infancy to prevent allergic reactions.
But groundbreaking research by Professor Gideon Lack changed everything. His work, published in the LEAP (Learning Early About Peanut Allergy) trial, turned our understanding of peanut allergy upside down.
LEAP Study: A Game-Changer in Allergy Prevention
The LEAP trial studied infants at high risk for peanut allergy and tested whether early peanut introduction (before 6 months of age) could prevent peanut allergy later in life. The results? A stunning 86% reduction in peanut allergy in the group that ate peanuts early and consistently.
Naturally, some skeptics thought:
👉 What if this is just temporary desensitization?
👉 Will these kids develop peanut allergies later on?
To answer these questions, researchers conducted follow-up studies (LEAP-ON & LEAP Trio) to track the children over time. The results confirmed that early peanut introduction leads to long-term prevention—not just temporary tolerance.
The slide above was captured by me during an Allergy meeting.
What This Means for Parents
If you’re a parent, you might be wondering:
✔ Should I be giving my baby peanuts early?
✔ Is it really safe?
✔ What if my child is already at risk for allergies?
The answer from experts and major health organizations (like the American Academy of Pediatrics and National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases) is yes!
🔹 Babies at risk for peanut allergy (e.g., those with eczema or egg allergy) should be introduced to peanuts as early as 4-6 months under medical guidance.
🔹 For low-risk babies, introducing peanuts early (once they start solids) is still encouraged to help reduce allergy risk.
🔹 Regular exposure matters! Giving peanuts once isn’t enough—consistent consumption is key to maintaining tolerance.
The Bottom Line: Prevention is Possible
Early peanut introduction isn’t just a theory anymore—it’s a proven, science-backed way to prevent peanut allergy before it even starts.
If you’re unsure about how to start, the Allergy Immunology Clinic team will be happy to help you get a safe and personalized plan for your baby.
Want to learn more about early allergen introduction? Check out our guide: →Food Allergy Prevention Through Early Introduction
