Introducing Allergenic Foods to Your Baby

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Introducing Allergenic Foods to Your Baby

Parents often question the best time to introduce high-risk allergenic foods to their baby. Research suggests that introducing these foods early may help prevent the development of food allergies.

Risk Factors

Any baby can develop a food allergy, but those with a family history of allergies, existing food allergies, or eczema are at higher risk. If a baby has shown an allergic reaction to a specific food, they might be more likely to react to others. Consult a pediatrician for guidance on safely introducing allergenic foods.

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Common Allergens

The most common allergens include milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. These are often labeled as major food allergens on packaging.

When to Introduce Allergens

Start introducing solids around 4 to 6 months, when babies typically reach developmental milestones like head control. Begin with single-ingredient purees and gradually introduce allergenic foods, starting with small amounts and observing for any reactions.

How to Introduce Allergens

- Single Ingredient Purées: Start with one food at a time.

- Small Amounts: Introduce small portions and monitor for reactions.

- Frequency: Offer new foods about three to four times a week.

- Observation: Watch for reactions for several hours after introducing a new food.

- Preparation: Ensure foods are easy for the baby to swallow, such as pureed or mashed.

Specific Foods

- Milk: Introduce dairy around 12 months, but dairy can be included earlier through yogurt or cooked foods.

- Eggs: Begin with scrambled or hard-boiled eggs around 4 to 6 months.

- Peanut Butter: Use creamy peanut butter spread thinly on toast or mixed into cereal. Avoid chunky peanut butter due to choking risk.

Monitoring for Reactions

Watch for symptoms like rashes, hives, swelling, eczema, lethargy, nasal stuffiness, coughing, itching, diarrhea, vomiting, or trouble breathing. Severe reactions require immediate medical attention.

Next Steps for Reactions

If your baby has a mild reaction, consult a pediatrician who may refer you to an allergist for further testing. Allergists can conduct tests such as skin prick tests or blood tests to identify specific allergens.

Managing Allergies

For minor reactions, avoid the problematic foods and follow your pediatrician's advice. Severe reactions may require an EpiPen. Regularly update your child’s food allergy action plan with your pediatrician.