Allergy-Free Kids: The Science-Based Approach to Preventing Food Allergies

Health and science journalist Pompa introduces fascinating new ideas about allergy avoidance in this helpful and reassuring guide for parents. A mother of three, Pompa’s experience with her own children’s food allergies prompted her to dig deeply into current scientific literature. Her discovery—that some doctors now recommend introducing, not avoiding, allergens at an early age—represents a dramatic reversal from previous medical advice. As Pompa points out, childhood food allergies have become startlingly prevalent (almost 6 million kids in the U.S., and one million in Britain, where she now resides). Pompa leads parents through the introduction of allergens during a critical window of time (according to allergists of this school, at three to five months old, at least for peanuts, and possibly for other allergens), explores various theories of why allergies have increased, and shares her personal experiences. She also offers an ample selection of “kid-friendly, allergy-fighting” recipes. Babies with dry skin, eczema, or a family history of food allergies should be tested before introducing allergens, she warns; moreover, parents should seek expert assistance (Pompa makes clear she is neither a dietician nor a physician). Pompa’s book is a detailed, informative primer on promising, if not yet conclusively proven, theories. Agent: Michelle Tessler, Tessler Literary Agency. (Apr.)