Understanding the Eczema x Food Allergy Connection with Dr. Chacko
Did you know the single biggest risk factor for developing a food allergy is eczema? When a baby is diagnosed with eczema, many parents have questions about what it means for their child’s health - especially when it comes to the risk of food allergies. We sat down with Dr. Chacko, a top Atlanta allergy, asthma, and sinus doctor who specializes in food allergies, to unpack what parents need to know and the simple steps that can make a big difference. At Mission MightyMe, we’re committed to making early allergen introduction and food allergy prevention easier for families, so we were especially excited to dive into his expertise.
What is Eczema?
Eczema is a condition that causes the skin to become itchy or inflamed and creates a rash-like appearance. It is not contagious and while the exact cause is unknown, researchers believe it’s caused by a combination of environmental triggers and genetics. According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), over 31 million Americans have some form of eczema.
Diagnosis & Risk
Why does eczema increase the risk for food allergies in children?
“Eczema makes the skin barrier ‘leaky,’ so food proteins (like peanut dust) can sneak in through the skin. The immune system can overreact and see these proteins as dangerous. That’s how eczema can set kids up for food allergies.” – Dr. Chacko
Dr. Gideon Lack, co-founder of Mission MightyMe and lead researcher of the groundbreaking LEAP Study, explains it this way: “If a food protein comes in through the mouth very early on, the immune system tends to recognize it as safe. But if that same protein comes in through broken skin, the body can see it as an invader and mount an allergic response.”
Put another way, when babies are exposed to food proteins through breaks in their skin (rather than orally), the body can react as if it’s an intruder climbing through the window. Whereas, if exposure comes through the mouth / gut, it’s like someone knocking at the door and being welcomed in by the immune system.
Eczema Diagnosis: What’s the first important step after receiving this diagnosis?
“The first thing is to focus on good skin care. Daily moisturizing, gentle cleansers, and treating flare-ups with the right creams make a big difference. This helps calm the skin and prevent things from getting worse.” – Dr. Chacko
At Mission MightyMe, we know how concerning this connection can feel for parents. But the encouraging news is that there are proven, proactive steps families can take to help lower the risk.
Prevention & Early Introduction
How can parents reduce the risk of food allergies if their baby has eczema?
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“Start introducing baby-safe forms of peanut, tree nuts, and other common allergens early - around 4–6 months when your baby is ready for solids.
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Keep your baby’s skin moisturized every day to protect the barrier and lower allergy risk.
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Make early allergen foods part of regular feeding so your baby’s immune system learns they’re safe.” – Dr. Chacko
Research shows that early introduction isn’t just safe - it can actually be protective. According to the LEAP Study, led by Dr. Lack, introducing peanuts early and often can reduce the risk of a future allergy by up to 86%*.
Practical Guidance
When should parents talk to an allergist about food introduction?
“Most babies with eczema can safely try age-appropriate forms of peanuts, tree nuts, and other common allergens at home once they start solids.
Parents only need to see an allergist if their child already had a reaction, has severe eczema, or if food introduction feels unsafe.
Otherwise, early and regular introduction at home is the best way to lower food allergy risk.” – Dr. Chacko
What are the safest ways to introduce allergenic foods to a baby with eczema?
“If your little one has eczema, letting them try age-appropriate foods that contain peanut, tree nuts, and egg early on can actually help lower allergy risk. Start with just a tiny taste, keep it part of their regular meals, and don’t stress - it can be simple. Mission MightyMe Puffs may make it even easier to sprinkle those nuts into everyday life without the choking risk of nuts and nut butters. You’ve got this - every small step helps your baby build a healthy start.” – Dr. Chacko
That’s exactly why we created Nutty Puffs - so parents have an easy, developmentally appropriate way to include peanuts and tree nuts in everyday feeding routines. With options for both peanut and mixed nut varieties, families can feel confident making early introduction part of the normal mealtime or snacktime rhythm.
The Big Picture
If a child has eczema, does that mean they will definitely have food allergies?
“Having eczema doesn’t automatically mean your child will have food allergies. It just puts them at a higher risk because their skin barrier is more sensitive. Many kids with eczema never develop food allergies at all - so don’t worry, eczema is not a guarantee. You’ve got this, and simple steps like good skin care and early food introduction can really help.” – Dr. Chacko
What’s one thing you wish all parents knew about eczema and food allergies?
“One thing I wish every parent knew is that screening food allergy tests usually aren’t very helpful for babies with eczema. They can give false positives that cause unnecessary worry and food restrictions. What matters most is caring for your baby’s skin and introducing foods early and often - simple steps that truly make a difference. You’ve got this!” – Dr. Chacko
At Mission MightyMe, we believe those “simple steps” are incredibly powerful. Families don’t need to aim for perfection, just consistency. With good skin care and safe, early and often introduction of allergenic foods, parents can take meaningful action to help reduce the risk of food allergies and give their children a healthier start.*
Takeaway for Parents: While eczema can increase the risk for food allergies, it doesn’t mean your child will definitely develop them. Focus on skin care, start introducing common allergens early and often, and talk with a doctor if you have concerns.* With small, simple steps and the right tools, parents can set their little ones up for a mighty future.
