Background: Food allergies have become a global problem with negative clinical results. Food allergy management currently involves avoiding food allergens, which is not always possible and may lead to accidental reactions. Food restrictions may also lead to nutritional deficiencies, which can stunt growth. This study compares two groups to investigate the effects of dietary limitations due to allergies on children's intake, growth, and nutritional status. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 94 children aged 1 to 10 diagnosed with food allergies, accompanied by/without food restrictions. Child characteristics, socioeconomic status, parental history, and allergy status were collected with dietary data using the Semi- Quantitative Food Frequency Questionnaire (SQ-FFQ). results: Food restriction (limiting ≥3 foods) prevalence was 37.2%, with the majority constraining chocolate (30.9%), cow’s milk (29.8%), and egg yolk (25.5%). Statistical difference was found (p=0.05) in energy intake between the restricted and non-restricted groups. However, no statistical macronutrient intake differences were found. Average weight differences between both groups were significant (p=0.041) but did not mirror growth status in BMI, weight, and height for age. Micronutrient consumption variances were found in vitamin A (p=0.024), vitamin D (p=0.026), iron (p=0.000) , and magnesium (p=0.005). Results: Food restriction (limiting ≥3 foods) was observed in 37.2% of participants. Frequently avoided items include: chocolate (30.9%), cow’s milk (29.8%), and egg yolk (25.5%). Energy intake was significantly reduced in the restricted group (p = 0.050). There was a significant difference in mean body weight between groups (p = 0.041). However, Z-scores for BMI, weight-for-age, and height-for-age showed no significant differences. Notable differences in micronutrient intake were observed for vitamin A (p = 0.024), vitamin D (p = 0.026), iron (p < 0.001), and magnesium (p = 0.005). Discussion: Dietary restriction was associated with lower body weight, but Z-scores remained within reference standards, suggesting nutritional vulnerability needed continuous monitoring. Children with dietary restrictions exhibited lower overall energy intake while maintaining a comparable macronutrient distribution, notably choosing plant-based alternatives such as tofu and tempeh. This pattern illustrates the problems and adaptive strategies present in the cultural setting of Indonesian households managing with food allergies. Conclusion: These findings underscore the need for parental education and expert healthcare advice to avert unwarranted limitations, encourage nutrient-rich alternatives, and facilitate supervised reintroduction procedures in accordance with contemporary international norms. Culturally appropriate dietary recommendations for Indonesian children with food allergies are needed to ensure nutritional adequacy and growth.
Hikmah et al. (Tue,) studied this question.