Peanut allergies are a nightmare. Allergic reactions can range anywhere from itchy hives and a runny nose to asphyxia and anywhere in between. In the most severe cases, the asphyxia can be life-threatening. No one wants to learn the hard way that a child has this allergy.
In a recent clinical trial by North Carolina University researchers, it has been found that immunotherapy has worked in treatment of a peanut allergy among most participants. Medical Daily reports that nearly 80% of the 40 participants, ages 9 to 36 months, were able to incorporate peanuts into their diets after treatment.
The process of immunotherapy involves introducing small amounts of the peanut protein into the diet slowly. According to The Guardian, each participant was given either a high dose of peanut protein with a daily goal of 3,000 milligrams, or a low dose with a goal of 300 milligrams.
Both trials were safe and effective, with minimal side effects! The trial was carried out over an average course of 29 months and results were very encouraging! Let's hope that sometime soon, peanut allergies will be a thing of the past. Everyone should get to enjoy a good PB&J every now and then.