Eureka! Institutional Repository

Introduction: Allergic proctocolitis (AP) is a type of food allergy, non immunoglobulin E (IgE) mediated, in a group of foods such as cow's milk, soy, egg, rice, fish and wheat (Marie-Julie Debuf 2017). The major allergens are cow's milk protein and/or soy associated with breastfeeding. As we know, maternal nutrition affects breast-fed infants (Ludmilla S. 2016). Aim: The association of healthy mothers' nutrition with the mothers of children with AP during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in order to to find differences that contribute to the onset of allergy. Sample/Methodology: Eighteen (18) mothers (6 mothers of children with AP, 12 mothers with healthy children) were included in this study, of which the children’s age ranged from four (4) to fifty-five (55) months. Mother interviews lasted seven (7) months starting in May to November last year (2018). Their nutritional habits were investigated using Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), MedDietScore and clinical history of children in collaboration with pediatricians and an allergist. Results: A positive correlation was found between the family history of atopy and the appearance of AP. Also, the majority of children with AP were associated with the presence of asthma and eczema. The reduced duration of exclusive breastfeeding may positively affect the onset of AP. Regarding the dietary habits of mothers, the high consumption of saturated fats and dietary supplements positively affects the appearance of AP. Conversely, the increased consumption of coffee and ice cream seems to adversely affect the appearance of AP. In addition, the early introduction of solid foods negatively affects the appearance of AP. Conclusions: Maternal dietary habits during pregnancy and breastfeeding, the age of solid food introduction and the duration of exclusive breastfeeding seem to affect the appearance of AP. In addition, the family history of atopy and the existence of some type of allergy or eczema seem to play an important role.