BOSTON -- Asthma is the most serious, chronic disease in children, and many times, allergies can bring on an attack.
NewsCenter 5's Rhonda Mann reported Thursday that there is a new line of baby products designed to boost the immune system and prevent asthma and allergies from developing in the first place.
"Anyone with a family history of allergies and asthma, this will help decrease their chances of developing it by 75 percent," company spokeswoman Julie Gordon said.
That's the claim of a new line of products called Baby Boost. Blankets, nursing pillows and stuffed toys are designed with the help of MIT and Mass General researchers. They're based on a new wave of research that suggests exposing the body to tiny amounts of certain proteins may lower the risk of seasonal allergies and asthma.
"There were a handful of proteins, 16 or so, that most likely are playing a significant role in helping a baby's immune system develop tolerance for the environment," MIT researcher Dr. Simon Dao said.
The proteins, which are imbedded in or tagged onto the product, and are gradually released into the air over a period of three years, he says.
Allergist Dr. Javen Sheikh said that it's an interesting concept, but research is needed to prove the products will make a difference.
"Will they be any better than perhaps have your children go outside more, go in the yard and roll around in the grass? That might be just as good or even better," Javen said.
Dao is conducting his own study. In a few years, he'll be able to compare the rate of allergies and asthma for children who have used the products to those in the general population.
For now, the moms who market the products say for a little extra money, they're worth a try.
"The products we have the boost in are products you would buy anyway. I have my son in a sleep sack, you would buy that to help prevent SIDS, but with a boost, it's even better," Baby Boost spokeswoman Kelly Majewski said.
Baby Boost products are designed to prevent seasonal and pet allergies -- not food allergies.
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Rhonda Mann Reports On Products 
