Supplementation with probiotic bacteria may ward off eczema, say scientists.

The study tracked 102 pregnant women with a family history of allergic disease. The women took either a probiotic or a placebo pill during pregnancy. In addition, the same treatment was giving to the women’s babies during their first year of life.

During the first 3 months, 12% of babies in the probiotic group developed eczema, compared with 29% of the placebo group. As time went on, the rates of eczema grew more similar. However, some benefit remained for up to two years.

Allergy – September 2009;64:1349-58.
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