A recent survey of nearly 300 parents of children with atopic dermatitis (AD) found that while 42% identified food triggers for their child’s condition, elimination diets often fell short of expectations. Approximately one-third reported little or no improvement in symptoms, and nearly 80% reintroduced eliminated foods without recurrence of AD symptoms. Despite perceptions linking diet to AD flares, leading experts and organizations do not recommend elimination diets as a treatment, emphasizing risks such as malnutrition, stress, and the development of food allergies upon reintroduction.

The findings align with clinical insights that dietary changes generally play a limited role in AD management. Experts like Dr. Peter Lio and Dr. Nadia Makkoukdji underscore the importance of addressing misconceptions about food and AD while advocating for a more comprehensive approach to treatment. True food allergies, when present, require strict avoidance. However, for most patients, the focus should shift to broader factors, including gut microbiome health and systemic inflammatory responses, to effectively manage AD and improve quality of life.

Reference: Splete H. Parent Perceptions Drive Diet Changes for Children With Atopic Dermatitis. Dermatology News. Published November 4, 2024. Accessed December 5, 2024. https://www.mdedge.com/edermatologynews/article/271443/atopic-dermatitis/parent-perceptions-drive-diet-changes-children