An increasing number of children are allergic to some kind of nut, with potentially fatal consequences. About 20 per cent seem to “grow out of” their allergy in time, though there is a chance the allergy may come back. Now scientists have found this chance can be lowered- by eating peanuts.

Studying 68 kidswho had outgrown a peanut allergy, re searchers at Johns Hopkins Children’s Centre found none of those who regularly ate peanut products redeveloped an allergy, whereas those who did have a recurrence had seldom eaten peanuts. This suggests children who’ve outgrown an allergy should eat peanuts least once a month, but consult your doctor first