What Does Vitamin D Have To Do With Food Allergies?

The prevalence of food allergy has increased dramatically in the US over the past decade and has now reached epidemic levels. As food allergies have increased, vitamin D levels in the population appear to have concurrently decreased. Estimates suggest that up to 50% of people in Western countries are vitamin D insufficient and up to 10% are vitamin D deficient. Why does this happen?

Areas further away from the equator (and thus with lower ambient ultraviolet radiation [UVR]) have been shown to have higher rates of childhood food allergy-related hospital admissions, epinephrine auto-injector prescriptions, and peanut allergy (up to six times the risk) than areas closer to the equator. Season of birth (being born in autumn or winter when there is less UVR exposure) has also been associated with a higher risk of anaphylaxis and food allergy.

It's too early to say whether vitamin D can reverse food allergies, but research is beginning to support the idea that vitamin D can protect against food allergies and vitamin D is important for overall good health. If you think your child is vitamin D deficient, an allergist can assess the levels by a simple blood test and recommend supplements. Only take supplements under the care of health care professionals, such as your primary care physician or allergist.

Source: aaaai.org/tools-for-the-public/conditions-library/allergies/vitamin-d-food-allergy