Infants with Pets May Get Fewer Food Allergies

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A recent study in Japan involving 66,000 children revealed a potential link between living with pets and a lower risk of food allergies. The research indicated that if dogs or cats were present during a mother's pregnancy or the child's early infancy, there was a reduced risk of up to five food allergies. Specifically, children under 3 who had close contact with dogs showed a lower risk of allergies to eggs, milk, and nuts, while infants with contact with cats had fewer allergies to eggs, wheat, and soybeans. The study, based on data from the Japan Environment and Children's Study, also considered the impact of pets like turtles, birds, and hamsters. Notably, hamsters were associated with an increased risk of nut allergies. This study challenges concerns about pets causing allergies and suggests a potential protective effect, especially from dogs and cats.

Questions

1- What does the recent study in Japan suggest about the relationship between pets and food allergies?

2- Which age group showed a lower risk of allergies to eggs, milk, and nuts when in close contact with dogs?

3- What is the impact of hamsters according to the study?

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You have completed the comprehension questions. 

Parts of this lesson are based on: An article by Bill Smith.