Role of breastfeeding: Duration of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding

Understanding the relationship between breastfeeding and food allergy is of great interest to researchers, clinicians, and parents. Observational studies are a key source of data for exploring the relationship between duration of breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding and food allergy, however reverse causation and confounding are important considerations when interpreting these studies. Systematic reviews conclude that there is insufficient evidence to support an association between duration of breastfeeding/exclusive breastfeeding and food allergy. Differences in composition of breastmilk between individuals may make it difficult to draw overall conclusions, with mechanistic studies identifying several components with potentially protective effects, although more research is required.