The Relationship Between Dietary Patterns and the Epidemiology of Food Allergy

ABSTRACT Food allergies are increasing globally, particularly in Asia; however, the etiologies of allergic diseases remain poorly understood despite comprehensive studies conducted across a variety of populations. Epidemiological research demonstrates that food allergy is more prevalent in Westernized or urbanized societies than in rural or developing ones. As such, comparing the distribution and patterns of food allergies as well as the environmental exposures between regions may provide insight into potential causal and protective factors of food allergy. Diet is an important exposome that has been shown to modulate the immune system both directly and indirectly via pathways involving the microbiota. Changes in dietary patterns, especially the shift to a Westernized diet with reduced dietary fiber and an abundance of processed foods, impact the gut and skin epithelial barrier and contribute to the development of chronic inflammatory diseases, such as food allergy. Although dietary intervention is believed to have tremendous potential as a strategy to promote immunological health, it is essential to recognize that diet is only one of many factors that have changed in urbanized societies. Other factors, such as pollution, microplastics, the use of medications like antibiotics, and exposure to biodiversity and animals, may also play significant roles, and further research is needed to determine which exposures are most critical for the development of food allergies.