Researchers at the Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood (COPSAC), University of Copenhagenout of Denmark has found a link between caesarean sections and allergies.  The study found a direct link between the number of different bacteria in their rectums and the risk of development of allergies later in life.

Babies born via c-section miss out on beneficial bacteria to help give a much needed boost to their immunity.  This first bacteria from the mother is a completely different, reduced variety of bacteria which is missed if the baby is not born vaginally.  It explains why more children born caesarean develop food and environmental allergies. 

During the first six months gestation, the mother’s immunity protects the fetus.  Bacteria flora in the fetus is affected by mother’s diet, artificial substances, medicines, and any antibiotics the mother has taken.  It is around week 37 when the baby’s antibodies peak getting ready for the outside world.  What matters the most is the amount of bacteria infants are exposed to when the immune system is still developing.  The window in which the infant is immunologically immature can be influenced by bacteria is very brief and this opportunity for optimal immune development closes a few months after birth.

What matters is to encounter a large number of different bacteria early in life when the immune system is developing and ‘learning’. The window during which the infant is immunologically immature and can be influenced by bacteria is brief, and closes a few months after birth.

It is for these reasons that may explain why far more children born by caesarean section develop allergies.

What can expecting mothers due? 

1.      Take a high-quality food based supplement that has both DHA and probiotic blend in them.  New Chapter Perfect Prenatal or Garden of Life Raw Prenatal has both in them. 

2.      If your prenatal does not have either DHA or Probiotics, then supplement into your diet.  In fact, a 2009 study found mothers who supplemented with fish oils both in early pregnancy had reduced chances of having a baby with food allergies. Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega + D3 is an excellent brand that has been purified and is pharmaceutical grade quality.

3.      Eat a fresh and clean diet by eating raw nuts, seeds, legumes, fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats and organic eggs to ensure optimal health.

4.      Limit the amount of sugary based drinks, coffee and processed foods, all which can suppress immunity in mother and baby. 

About the writer: 

Jasmine Jafferali, MPH is maternal, child and family health educator. She works as an Educational and Wellness Consultant who helps women, moms, children and families achieve healthier lifestyles. Her mission is to teach women to take charge of their health and well-being. She is the Program Coordinator for an online certificate course she authored in Women's Exercise Training and Wellness and is a Master Trainer for Healthy Moms(R) Fitness www.healthymomsfitness.com and teaches all over about perinatal health and fitness. Jasmine resides in Chicago with her husband and daughter and is expecting her second child in April.

Internet site reference: http://www.examiner.com/pregnancy-health-in-national/more-children-born-by-caesarean-are-developing-allergies