Re: Baby Boost

[Guest guest]

Saw this article and thought the readers would be

interested: :-< I don't like the sound of it.

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http://www.thebostonchannel.com/health/4402514/detail.html

Proteins Slowly Released Out Of Blankets, Toys

POSTED: 1:25 pm EDT April 21, 2005

UPDATED: 5:41 pm EDT April 21, 2005

BOSTON -- Asthma is the most serious, chronic disease

in children, and many times, allergies can bring on an

attack.

NewsCenter 5's Rhonda Mann reported Thursday that

there is a new line of baby products designed to boost

the immune system and prevent asthma and allergies

from developing in the first place.

" Anyone with a family history of allergies and asthma,

this will help decrease their chances of developing it

by 75 percent, " company spokeswoman Gordon said.

That's the claim of a new line of products called Baby

Boost. Blankets, nursing pillows and stuffed toys are

designed with the help of MIT and Mass General

researchers. They're based on a new wave of research

that suggests exposing the body to tiny amounts of

certain proteins may lower the risk of seasonal

allergies and asthma.

" There were a handful of proteins, 16 or so, that most

likely are playing a significant role in helping a

baby's immune system develop tolerance for the

environment, " MIT researcher Dr. Simon Dao said.

The proteins, which are imbedded in or tagged onto the

product, and are gradually released into the air over

a period of three years, he says.

Allergist Dr. Javen Sheikh said that it's an

interesting concept, but research is needed to prove

the products will make a difference.

" Will they be any better than perhaps have your

children go outside more, go in the yard and roll

around in the grass? That might be just as good or

even better, " Javen said.

Dao is conducting his own study. In a few years, he'll

be able to compare the rate of allergies and asthma

for children who have used the products to those in

the general population.

For now, the moms who market the products say for a

little extra money, they're worth a try.

" The products we have the boost in are products you

would buy anyway. I have my son in a sleep sack, you

would buy that to help prevent SIDS, but with a boost,

it's even better, " Baby Boost spokeswoman

Majewski said.

Baby Boost products are designed to prevent seasonal

and pet allergies -- not food allergies.

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