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To ban or not to ban?

The words “food ban” are guaranteed to polarise communities, as we have seen through recent media reports. Arguments range from calls to have allergic children home-schooled if they are so in danger to parents who expect all students to experience the same dietary restrictions as their child. Both sides of the debate invite extremists, which makes the call for national anaphylaxis management guidelines for schools and preschools so important.

War on the itch!

A recent New Zealand study found that a particular stain of probiotics may protect against eczema developing in young children. While these results on prevention are very promising, the jury is still out on whether probiotics have any effect on treating existing allergic conditions.

Breathing easy: good news on asthma front

Asthma has been a national concern in New Zealand since the 1970s due to many deaths and increased hospital admissions. While there has already been some evidence of asthma reaching a plateau, a new study has confirmed this good news for New Zealanders.

How to let go

Adolescence is probably the age most parents fear – particularly if your child has a severe food allergy. If we believe what we read, this is the age group notorious for risk-taking behaviour and who gives in to peer-group pressure at the drop of a hat. Parents don’t even come into the equation. So how do we ensure that our kids turn into responsible young adults who are able to keep themselves safe?

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• An udder worry: milk allergy
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• On the skin: Slip, slop and scratch. Find out the main chemical culprits in your sunscreen that can cause rashes
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