Early Childhood
Continue practicing key behaviors introduced in the breastfeeding phase!
No smoking
Regular maternal smoking is a risk factor for allergies in children exposed to secondhand smoke, which damages the skin and respiratory barriers.37
Even thirdhand smoke has been shown to have similar damaging effects as secondhand smoke, so smoking outside is not a way to prevent damage to your child.38
The complete avoidance of smoking during breastfeeding is essential in preventing allergies.
Manage stress
Higher caregiver stress during early childhood is associated with an allergic immune profile for the child.41
Strategies to decrease stress: 29
- High-quality sleep
- Physical activity
- Healthy diet
- Meditation
- Gratitude