Junk food consumption raises the risk of allergies in children

Food allergies in children may be caused by a high consumption of junk food such as microwaved foods and barbequed meats, according to researchers.

High levels of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are linked to food allergies in children, according to a study presented at the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition’s 52nd Annual Meeting.

Sugars, processed foods, microwaved foods, and roasted or barbequed meats all contain large amounts of AGEs. According to the researchers, they are known to play a role in the development and progression of various oxidative-based diseases such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, and neurological disorders.

The research team observed 61 children aged 6 to 12 years for the study. They were divided into three groups: food allergy sufferers, respiratory allergy sufferers, and healthy controls.

According to Roberto Berni Canani, Associate Professor at the University of Naples Federico II in Italy, “the study revealed a significant correlation between AGEs and junk food consumption.”