Scientists have discovered children who eat fast food three or more times a week are significantly more likely than other children to develop severe eczema. The researchers from Auckland University in New Zealand used international data compiled from almost two million children and adolescents. They also discovered that young children who consumed at least three fast food meals a week were 27 percent more likely to develop severe asthma, and teenagers were 39 percent more likely than other children who ate fewer or no fast food meals a week.
It is believed that the high content of fats, refined salts and sugars, trans fatty acids, chemical preservatives and other artificial additives in take away foods contribute to the appearance of eczema, asthma and hay fever.
On the other hand, the same researchers found eating three or more servings of fruits and vegetables a week reduced symptoms of these conditions among all age groups. According to the data, teenagers who ate three or more servings of fruits and vegetables saw an 11 percent symptom reduction, while young children saw a 14 percent reduction.
It’s little wonder, as vegetables and fruits such as papaya are rich in vitamin C, a natural antihistamine.