Changes in Calcium Intake and Growth in Children With Multiple Food Allergies

Abstract

Background. Food allergies are a growing problem among American children. There is currently no cure for food allergy. Food allergies are managed by strictly eliminating allergens from the diet, which may lead to poor nutrient intake and poor growth. The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze changes in calcium intake and growth in children with multiple food allergies after medical nutrition therapy (MNT). Materials and Methods. A retrospective chart review was conducted on 50 patients with 2 or more food allergies. At least one of their food allergies was nutritionally significant: milk, soy, wheat, or egg. Weight and length/height were recorded from the medical record from the initial allergist visit (visit 1), the initial dietitian visit (visit 2), and the follow-up dietitian visit (visit 3). Dietary intake was collected from the medical record from visits 2 and 3 and calcium intake was calculated based on these data. Results. Weight-for-age and weight-for-length or body mass index (BMI)-for...