Growth and nutritional concerns in children with food allergy

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To describe the potential effect that avoidance diets for food allergy may have on nutrition and growth in children. RECENT FINDINGS: We report here the findings from the previous studies suggesting impairment of growth and nutritional deficiencies because of elimination diets for food allergy. Feeding difficulties have also been reported, particularly in children with eosinophilic esophagitis that may further impact the nutrient intake. SUMMARY: Food allergies are becoming more prevalent and better recognized. Treatment options typically include strict dietary elimination of major food allergens such as milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanut, tree nuts, fish and shellfish. Monitoring growth and guiding food allergic patients in choosing appropriate alternatives to supply necessary nutrients becomes crucial to avoid deficiencies and retardation in growth.