Early exposure to furry pets can help prevent allergies and obesity

[McFurd]

Consumer Affairs - 4/7/2017 - Sarah D. Young - In addition to keeping the house clean of fallen Cheerios, the family dog may also be a boon to babies’ health. Man’s best friend can help protect kids from allergies and obesity later in life, a new study suggests. Research conducted at the University of Alberta showed that infants from families with pets, especially dogs, had higher levels of two types of gut microbes associated with lower risks of obesity and allergic disease. According to the study's lead author Anita Kozyrskyj, there’s a “critical window of time when gut immunity and microbes co-develop, and when disruptions to the process result in changes to gut immunity.” Read more @ https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/ea ... 40717.html