Three times the number of children now have food allergies than did three decades ago, according to new numbers in the UK. Muriel Simmons of Allergy UK said that new research pegs the level of allergies in children at 40 per cent.

This is a staggering rate of allergic disease, unprecedented in modern times.

It’s not just that allergies are increasing. It’s also that the complexity of allergy cases is increasing. Dr Jonathan North from Birmingham Children’s Hospital indicated that multiple allergies are now significantly more common.

While there are many competing theories regarding allergies, one theory which is being tested is whether food allergies are on the rise because we now have access to a wider and more exotic range of foods. Children are being exposed to these foods at relatively young ages, which could set the stage for sensitization.

Of course, most parents are acutely aware of the fact that severe allergies are on the rise. Nut free policies at school and work are becoming commonplace. Most schools now keep Epi-pens and other autoinjector devices on hand. It seems that this epidemic of allergy could be happening because of our healthy, varied modern diets, which allow for a much wider range of foods available throughout the year.

For instance, foods like mango and kiwi would have been a rare addition to a northern diet only 50 years ago. Now these foods are easily available at the local supermarket. However, they are also becoming a more common allergic trigger.

The exact causes for this is unclear.

Another proposed theory is that eczema – a common childhood condition that now affects 40 per cent more people in the UK than a mere 4 year ago – could be a kind of “gateway” that may result in allergies. Scientists speculate that the broken skin as a result of the inflammation, may allow allergens to enter the body directly, sensitizing the immune system.

Source: UK Telegraph