Do infants with cow's milk protein allergy have inadequate levels of vitamin D?

Vitamin D and allergic diseases

In recent years, the relationship between vitamin D and allergic diseases has received widespread attention. As a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin D plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system and may influence the onset and progression of diseases such as atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis, and asthma. To understand the underlying mechanisms, we have summarized the current research on the association between vitamin D and allergic diseases. We also discuss the impact of vitamin D on the immune system and its role in the course of allergic diseases, particularly focusing on how vitamin D supplementation affects the treatment outcomes of these conditions. We aim to provide a theoretical basis and practical guidance for optimizing the management and treatment of allergic diseases by modulating vitamin D levels.

Prevalence and Risk Factors for IgE and IgG Cow's Milk Protein Allergies in Saudi Arabia

Cow's milk protein allergies (CMPAs) particularly occur in infancy and early childhood due to an immunological allergic reaction to milk proteins. This issue is increasing in Saudi Arabia and requires research to improve health status and provide alternatives. Our study aims to investigate the important aspects of immunoglobulin E (IgE) and IgG CMPA in Saudi Arabia regarding its prevalence and association with demographic and health-related factors in both adult and pediatric populations. A descriptive retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted on 376 patients, comprising 314 adults aged between 19 and 86 years, and 62 pediatric patients aged between one and 12 years. The study focused on individuals who attended a private medical center in Jeddah city over the past five years. Laboratory results for food allergy of IgE and IgG tests, including cow's milk proteins (CMPs), serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD), specific IgE inhalant allergy results, and other health-related factors were collected from an electronic record system. Results have shown that casein was the most common sensitizing allergen of CMPs in adults, whereas α-lactalbumin was the most common sensitizing allergen in pediatrics. The most frequent sensitizing allergen in IgG CMP was cow's milk in 54/92 (58.7%) adults, followed by cow's sour milk products 41 (44.6%). Cow's milk was the most common sensitizing allergen in 20/20 (100%) children. The rate of CMPA was significantly higher in children younger than five years old (P =0.003), while children who interacted with pets had a marginal significantly reduced rate (P = 0.054). Thus, cow's milk is the most sensitizing allergen in IgG CMPs in adults and pediatrics.

Nutritional Management of Children with Food Allergies

Purpose of the Review

The purpose of the review is to review the evidence for the nutritional management of paediatric food allergy and provide a practical approach for healthcare professionals working in this area.

Recent Findings

Dietary elimination remains the mainstay for management of food allergies in children. However, the elimination of food allergens increases the risk for growth faltering, micronutrient deficiencies and feeding difficulties. Breastmilk remains the ideal source of nutrition for infants, but when not available, the vast majority will tolerate an extensively hydrolysed formula, and rice hydrolysate has also been suggested as a suitable alternative. Only in severe cases, including anaphylaxis, eosinophilic oesophagitis and growth faltering, is an amino acid formula indicated. The early introduction of peanut and egg and avoiding the delay in the introduction of other allergens, when not already allergic, has been highlighted by recent studies.

Summary

Whilst the elimination of allergens increases the risk of developing poor growth, micronutrient deficiencies and feeding difficulties, optimal, early dietary input, including advice on active introduction of allergens and alternative feeds, ideally from a registered dietitian/nutritionist, may be prevent and improve outcomes.

The Crosstalk between Vitamin D and Pediatric Digestive Disorders

Vitamin D is a cyclopentane polyhydrophenanthrene compound involved mainly in bone health and calcium metabolism but also autophagy, modulation of the gut microbiota, cell proliferation, immune functions and intestinal barrier integrity. The sources of vitamin D include sunlight, diet and vitamin D supplements. Vitamin D3, the most effective vitamin D isoform is produced in the human epidermis as a result of sunlight exposure. Vitamin D undergoes two hydroxylation reactions in the liver and kidney to reach its active form, 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D. Recent studies highlighted a complex spectrum of roles regarding the wellbeing of the gastrointestinal tract. Based on its antimicrobial effect, it was recently indicated that vitamin D supplementation in addition to standard eradication therapy might enhance H. pylori eradication rates. Moreover, it was suggested that low levels of vitamin D might also be involved in the acquisition of H. pylori infection. In terms of celiac disease, the negative effects of vitamin D deficiency might begin even during intrauterine life in the setting of maternal deficiency. Moreover, vitamin D is strongly related to the integrity of the gut barrier, which represents the core of the pathophysiology of celiac disease onset, in addition to being correlated with the histological findings of disease severity. The relationship between vitamin D and cystic fibrosis is supported by the involvement of this micronutrient in preserving lung function by clearing airway inflammation and preventing pathogen airway colonization. Moreover, this micronutrient might exert anticatabolic effects in CF patients. Inflammatory bowel disease patients also experience major benefits if they have a sufficient level of circulating vitamin D, proving its involvement in both induction and remission in these patients. The findings regarding the relationship between vitamin D, food allergies, diarrhea and constipation remain controversial, but vitamin D levels should be monitored in these patients in order to avoid hypo- and hypervitaminosis. Further studies are required to fill the remaining gaps in term of the complex impact of vitamin D on gastrointestinal homeostasis.

Food Protein-Induced Allergic Proctocolitis: The Effect of Maternal Diet During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding in a Mediterranean Population

Background

The aim of the current investigation was to explore the association of food protein-induced allergic proctocolitis (FPIAP) with the maternal diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding in Greek infants.

Methods

A multicenter retrospective case-control study was conducted in 6 regions in Greece, with 96 mothers of infants with and 141 mothers of infants without a history of FPIAP. Maternal dietary habits during pregnancy and breastfeeding were evaluated with the following validated questionnaires: (a) The Mediterranean Diet Score and (b) The Mediterranean Oriented Culture-Specific Semi-Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire.

Results

FPIAP was associated with cow's milk (83.6%), egg (7.3%), wheat (6.4%), and beef (6.4%) in the maternal diet. Adherence to Mediterranean Diet was similar among the mothers. Mothers of FPIAP infants consumed more vegetables. Elastic net prediction models showed that, in this Mediterranean population, increased consumption during pregnancy and lactation of common allergens, whole grain products, homemade food, fish and shellfish, and fruits was associated with a decreased risk of FPIAP. Conversely, a high intake of vegetables, sugar and total fat, and non-stick/grilled cooking, were associated with increased risk of FPIAP, as was a high intake of salt and white flour during lactation only.

Conclusions

Components of a maternal Mediterranean Diet may protect against FPIAP when traditional cooking methods are adopted and fish, fruit, and whole wheat products are consumed frequently during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Role of the dietary components in food allergy: A comprehensive review

Currently, the increasing incidence of food allergy is considered a major public health and food safety concern. Importantly, food-induced anaphylaxis is an acute, life-threatening, systemic reaction with varied clinical presentations and severity that results from the release of mediators from mast cells and basophils. Many factors are blamed for the increasing incidence of food allergy, including hygiene, microbiota (composition and diversity), inopportune complementary foods (a high-fat diet), and increasing processed food consumption. Studies have shown that different food components, including lipids, sugars, polyphenols, and vitamins, can modify the immunostimulating properties of allergenic proteins and change their bioavailability. Understanding the role of the food components in allergy might improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of food allergy. This review considers the role of the dietary components, including lipids, sugars, polyphenols, and vitamins, in the development of food allergy as well as results of mechanistic investigations in in vivo and in vitro models.

Alimentação complementar e estado nutricional de lactentes em dieta de exclusão das proteínas do leite de vaca

Resumo Objetivo: Avaliar a dieta e o estado nutricional de lactentes em dieta de exclusão das proteínas do leite de vaca. Métodos: Estudo observacional, transversal, que comparou: lactentes em dieta de exclusão das proteínas do leite de vaca (n=60) atendidos em unidade de dispensação de fórmulas hipoalergênicas e lactentes sem restrições alimentares (n=60), de mesma idade e sexo (grupo controle). A idade variou de seis a 24 meses. A dieta foi avaliada com o emprego do inquérito alimentar e foram mensurados o peso e a estatura. Resultados: A ingestão de macronutrientes foi adequada em ambos os grupos. No grupo em dieta de exclusão das proteínas do leite de vaca, as proporções de lactentes com ingestão insuficiente foram menores em relação aos controles, para ferro (13,3 e 31,7%; p=0,029), zinco (5,0 e 18,3%; p=0,047) e vitamina D (25,0 e 71,7%; p<0,001). A fórmula hipoalergênica contribuiu com maior oferta de nutrientes do que os alimentos lácteos para o grupo controle. Entre 12 e 24 meses, o número de lactentes em dieta de exclusão que nunca consumiram carne bovina, peixe, cereais e ovo foi maior do que no grupo controle (p<0,05). Os escores Z de comprimento-idade nos lactentes em dieta de exclusão das proteínas do leite de vaca (-0,4±1,6) foram menores (p=0,039) do que no grupo controle (+0,2±1,3). Conclusões: A dieta de lactentes em exclusão do leite de vaca foi adequada apesar do atraso na introdução de alguns alimentos. Lactentes em dieta de exclusão apresentaram menor crescimento linear não acompanhado de déficit ponderal.

Complementary feeding and nutritional status of infants on cow’s milk proteins elimination diet

Objective:

To evaluate the diet and nutritional status of infants on an elimination diet of cow’s milk proteins.

Methods:

Observational and cross-sectional study that compared: Infants on a cow’s milk protein elimination diet (n=60) assisted at a hypoallergenic formula distribution unit and a control group of same age and gender without dietary restrictions (n=60). Age ranged from 6 to 24 months. The diet was evaluated using the 24-hour food survey and weight and height were measured.

Results:

The macronutrient intake of both groups reached nutritional recommendations. The proportions of infants in the group of elimination of cow’s milk proteins with insufficient intake were lower, compared to controls, for iron (13.3 and 31.7%; p=0.029), zinc (5.0 and 18.3%; p=0.047), and vitamin D (25.0 and 71.7%; p<0.001). The hypoallergenic formula contributed to a greater supply of nutrients than dairy foods for the control group. Between 12 and 24 months, the number of infants on a restriction diet who never consumed meat, fish, cereals, and eggs was higher than in the control group (p<0.05). The length-age Z scores in infants on a cow’s milk protein elimination diet (-0.4±1.6) were lower (p=0.039) than in the control group (+0.2±1.3).

Conclusions:

The diet of infants with exclusion of cow’s milk protein was adequate despite the delay in the introduction of some complementary foods. Infants on an elimination cow’s milk protein diet showed lower linear growth without weight deficit.

Cost-effectiveness Analysis of Hypoallergenic Milk Formulas for the Management of Cow's Milk Protein Allergy in the United Kingdom

Background: Cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) is the most common food allergy in early childhood. In most children CMPA resolves by age 5 or 6; however, if not treated correctly can provoke nutritional deficiency resulting in poor growth. Management consists of excluding cow's milk from the diet, with hypoallergenic formulas (or non-dairy alternatives) being introduced to meet nutritional requirements. Objectives: To compare the cost-effectiveness of hypoallergenic formulas in reducing allergic manifestations and promoting immune tolerance in infants with immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated symptoms of CMPA. Methods: A trial-based decision analytic cohort model was developed to simulate the occurrence of urticaria, eczema, asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, or being symptom-free in infants with CMPA in the United Kingdom. Amino acid-based formula (AAF), extensively hydrolysed casein formula containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus Gorbach Goldin (EHCF+LGG), extensively hydrolysed whey formula (EHWF), and soy formula (SF) were compared using the National Health Service (NHS) perspective, 3-year time horizon and 3.5% discount rate for cost and health consequences. Hypoallergenic formulas comparative efficacy was sourced from a prospective cohort study. Resources required to manage allergic symptoms were sourced from published literature, validated by a UK clinician, and applied to UK cost resources. Results were reported as cost per additional child free from allergic manifestations at 3 years and cost per additional immune tolerant child at 3 years. Results: In the base case, infants receiving EHCF+LGG were associated with lower NHS resource use and improved CMPA tolerance. Over the 3-year treatment period, savings of £119, £476, and £1094 were achieved with EHCF+LGG compared to SF, EHWF and AAF, respectively. Infant formula accounted for the largest proportion of resource consumption averaging 44% for all comparators, with a minimum of 31% for SF and a maximum of 53% for AAF over 3 years. General practitioners' visits constituted the second highest cost component, approximately 17% of total costs across comparators. The results were robust to deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. Conclusions: Compared to AAF, SF, and EHWF hypoallergenic formulas, EHCF+LGG was the most cost-effective, associated with lower total costs and contributing to a higher proportion of children being symptom-free and developing immune tolerance 3-years after diagnosis.

Vitamin D and iron status in children with food allergy

BACKGROUND

Children with food allergy are at specific risk for nutritional deficiencies.

OBJECTIVE

To retrospectively determine prevalence of vitamin D and iron deficiencies in children with or without food allergy (FA).

METHODS

We compared the markers of vitamin D and iron status of 0 to 17-year-olds with cow's milk allergy (CMA) (n = 77), those with other FAs (n = 70), and those with atopy without FA (n = 87) at an academic pediatric allergy practice. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to determine the impact of CMA and other FAs on vitamin D levels and iron markers.

RESULTS

Vitamin D deficiency was detected in one-fourth and insufficiency in one-third of children with CMA and other FAs and in those with atopic diseases but no FA, respectively. Vitamin D levels were associated with vitamin D supplementation and consumption of breast milk, cow's milk, infant formula, or plant-based milk beverage, but not with CMA or other FAs. Older children with FA who did not consume any cow's milk or alternative milk beverage were at highest risk for vitamin D insufficiency. Children with CMA have a higher rate of iron deficiency anemia (8%) than children with other FAs (1%) or those with no FA (5%, P < .001); however, suboptimal levels of transferrin saturation and iron were detected in up to one-third of children with CMA or other FAs.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency is common in children with atopy overall, but children with CMA are at higher risk for iron deficiency anemia. Intensive nutritional counseling and nutrient intake monitoring, specifically for vitamin D and iron in those avoiding cow's milk, are necessary to optimize nutritional status.

CASE-CONTROL STUDY ON VITAMIN D STATUS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH EOSINOPHILIC ESOPHAGITIS

BACKGROUND

Vitamin D is an essential fat-soluble steroid hormone and vitamin D deficiency is a global public health problem especially among children and adolescents. Factors such as the low intake of vitamin D-rich food sources, poor absorption and less exposure to the sun influence this outcome. Vitamin D has an anti-inflammatory effect in the body by promoting regulatory T cell differentiation as well as recovering T helper 17 cell response and secretion of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic disease, histologically characterized by predominantly eosinophilic inflammation. The most common therapeutic approaches are allergen-eliminating diets, such as excluding cow's milk, egg, soy, wheat, peanuts and seafood, or more specific dietary restrictions.

OBJECTIVE

To verify the serum levels of vitamin D in children and adolescents with eosinophilic esophagitis on a restricted food diet and to analyze their association with nutritional status, consumption of different food sources, exposure to the sun and skin color.

METHODS

Case-control study conducted in the city of Campinas-SP, Brazil, in which included patients were aged 2 to 18 years old, and those diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis was referred to as the case group (n=15), meanwhile a control group (n=17) was also formed. Epidemiological data, nutritional status, data on vitamin D intake (24-hour recall - performed only by EoE patients - and self-reported intake of vitamin D food sources: milk and dairy products, canned tuna and sardines, Bull's liver, chicken eggs - applied in both groups), and daily time of sun exposure (≥30 min or ≤30 min) were recorded. The samples were collected for serum levels of 25-hydroxy-vitamin D, where sufficiency levels >30 ng/mL were considered, insufficiency 21 to 30 ng/mL, deficiency <20 ng/mL.

RESULTS

There was a higher frequency of vitamin D insufficiency/ deficiency in the Eosinophilic Esophagitis group (P=0.035), even with longer sun exposure (P= 0.035). Skin color was not associated with lower levels of vitamin D in both groups studied. No difference was found in nutritional status between the groups.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated a higher frequency of inadequate/ deficient levels of vitamin D in children and adolescents with EoE on a restricted diet. When necessary, serum levels should be investigated and correct exposure to the sun should be encouraged, with special attention to the recommended guidelines, time spent in the sun and the appropriate clothing for correct absorption. Since exposure for more than 30 minutes in the sun does not appear to have provided a protective effect in the EoE group, even in a region with high levels of solar radiation. There was a significant difference only in the consumption of cow's milk between the case and control groups, demonstrating the low adherence to the restriction diet by the case group. No association was found between serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D levels and nutritional status. Moreover, no association regarding the adequate or inadequate status of 25 hydroxyvitamin D and the consumption vitamin D-rich foods was identified. Multicentered studies with a larger number of cases should be performed to assess serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D levels and associated factors in pediatric patients with EoE.

The Global Rise and the Complexity of Sesame Allergy: Prime Time to Regulate Sesame in the United States of America?

Sesame allergy is a life-threatening disease that has been growing globally with poorly understood mechanisms. To protect sensitive consumers, sesame is regulated in many countries. There were four research goals for this work on sesame allergy: (i) to map the timeline, and the extent of its global rise; (ii) to dissect the complexity of the disease, and its mechanisms; (iii) to analyze the global regulation of sesame; and (iv) to map the directions for future research and regulation. We performed a literature search on PubMed and Google Scholar, using combinations of key words and analyzed the output. Regulatory information was obtained from the government agencies. Information relevant to the above goals was used to make interpretations. We found that: (i) the reports appeared first in 1950s, and then rapidly rose globally from 1990s; (ii) sesame contains protein and lipid allergens, a unique feature not found in other allergenic foods; (iii) it is linked to five types of diseases with understudied mechanisms; and (iv) it is a regulated allergen in 32 advanced countries excluding the USA. We also provide directions for filling gaps in the research and identify implications of possible regulation of sesame in the USA.

Nutritional status and food intake of children with cow's milk allergy

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES

Cow's milk allergy (CMA) is common, especially in children. The treatment is based on the exclusion of milk and dairy products and guidance regarding the exclusion diet. This study aimed to compare the anthropometric measurements and food intake of children with CMA with those of healthy controls, and to evaluate the serum concentrations of Vitamin A and 25(OH)D in children with CMA.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study with 27 children in the CMA group and 30 in the control group. z-Scores of body mass index and height, skinfolds, food intake and serum concentrations of retinol, beta-carotene, lycopene, 25(OH)D, parathyroid hormone and high sensitivity C-reactive protein were evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean age was four years (±1.9). The CMA group evidenced a lower height compared to those from the control group (p=0.0043). The CMA group showed a lower intake of calcium (p=0.0033) and lipids (p=0.0123). Low serum concentrations of retinol, beta-carotene, lycopene, 25(OH)D were found in 25.9%, 59.3%, 48.1% and 70.3% of the CMA group, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with CMA consume smaller amounts of calcium and lipids and have shorter height compared to healthy controls. Insufficient levels of vitamins A and D were frequent in the CMA group, emphasizing the need for nutritional guidance and monitoring.

Food allergy is linked to season of birth, sun exposure, and vitamin D deficiency

The season of birth and ultraviolet B exposure have been related to the occurrence of food allergy. The levels of vitamin D produced from skin by ultraviolet B exposure might reflect this relationship. Vitamin D is known to induce antimicrobial peptides, protect intestinal flora, enhance the gut epithelial barrier, suppress mast cell activation and IgE synthesis from B cells, and increase the number of tolerogenic dendritic cells and IL-10-producing regulatory T cells. Vitamin D deficiency has been shown to exacerbate sensitization and allergic symptoms in a murine model of food allergy. However, in clinical situations, contradictory observations have been reported regarding the relationship between food allergy and vitamin D deficiency/supplementation. In this review, we have explored the links between food allergy and vitamin D levels. One explanation for the discrepant findings is confounding factors such as race, age, residency, skin color, and epigenetic changes that contribute to vitamin D levels. In addition, the season of birth influences the development of atopic dermatitis, which could lead to food sensitization. Finally, ultraviolet radiation could lead to regulatory T cell expansion and immunosuppression, irrespective of vitamin D status. Based on our current understanding, we believe that correction of vitamin D deficiency by supplementation, appropriate skin care, and sufficient ultraviolet radiation exposure could alter the prognosis of food allergy. To identify potential treatment strategies for food allergy, it is essential to gain a better understanding of the appropriate levels of vitamin D and ultraviolet radiation exposure.

[Association of FokI rs2228570 and TMPRSS6 rs855791 polymorphisms with cow's milk protein allergy in children]

OBJECTIVE

To study the association of polymorphisms of FokI rs2228570 in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene and TMPRSS6 rs855791 with cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) in children.

METHODS

Quantitative real-time PCR was used to analyze the single nucleotide polymorphisms of FokI rs2228570 in the VDR gene and TMPRSS6 rs855791 in 100 children with CMPA and 100 healthy children (control group). The multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the risk factors for CMPA.

RESULTS

There were significant differences in the frequencies of CC, CT, and TT genotypes of TMPRSS6 rs855791 between the CMPA and control groups (P=0.008), and the CMPA group had a significantly higher frequency of TT genotype. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the children with TT genotype of rs855791 had an increased risk of CMPA (OR=3.473, P=0.011). However, there was no significant difference in the genotype distribution of FokI rs2228570 in the VDR gene between the two groups (P=0.686).

CONCLUSIONS

TMPRSS6 rs855791 polymorphism is associated with CMPA in children, and TT genotype may be the susceptible genotype of CMPA. FokI rs2228570 polymorphism is not associated with CMPA.