Giving this fruit to babies could reduce allergy symptoms, new study finds

New research suggests that feeding blueberries to babies could reduce allergy symptoms and boost their gut health. The latest clinical trial indicates that early consumption of the fruit can enhance immunity and promote long-term health.

American scientists suggest that introducing blueberries as one of the first solid foods in a baby's diet could strengthen their immune systems, lessen allergy symptoms and aid healthy gut development.

To safely introduce this "superfood" to younger infants, the researchers recommend pureeing the berries. But if you have an older baby and toddler, it is advised to mash the blueberries or cut them into small pieces to prevent choking hazards.

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This study, published in the journals Nutrients and Frontiers in Nutrition, is the first to rigorously test the effects of a specific food on infant health using a randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Professor Minghua Tang, from the University of Colorado Anschutz and senior author of the study, said: "For parents beginning to wean their infants, it's incredibly difficult to find solid, research-backed advice on what foods to introduce.

"This study is a critical first step in filling that gap by offering real data on how a specific food like blueberries can improve your infant's health."

The study tracked 61 babies in the Denver area of Colorado from five to 12 months of age. Each day, participants consumed either freeze-dried blueberry powder, or a placebo powder with no blueberries.

Parents were able to feed their youngsters as usual, simply incorporating the powder into their daily meals. The research team gathered stool and blood samples every two months to track alterations in the babies' gut bacteria, immune system markers and allergy-related results.

They also monitored development and eating patterns. Crucial discoveries revealed enhanced allergy symptoms in infants who ate blueberry powder, decreased inflammation and evidence of a more robust immune response, and "positive" changes in gut microbiota - with modifications deemed advantageous for immune health.

Prof Tang stated: "This research supports the idea that blueberries are not only safe for infants but also offer meaningful health benefits. Just a few blueberries a day could make a difference in supporting long-term health.

"We view infancy as a critical window of opportunity and what we introduce during this time can have lasting effects as children grow."

The research team is continuing to investigate what other early foods might help promote healthy gut bacteria and a robust immune system as babies develop to ensure there's improved guidance available for parents.