Introducing solid foods to your baby is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a little nerve-wracking, especially when it comes to potential allergens. With food allergies on the rise, many parents wonder when and how to safely introduce common allergens like peanuts, eggs, and dairy. The good news? Research suggests that introducing allergens early and consistently may actually help reduce the risk of developing food allergies.
Here’s everything you need to know about safely introducing allergens to your baby.
When Should You Introduce Allergens?
Experts, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), recommend introducing allergenic foods around 6 months of age, but not before 4 months. This aligns with when babies typically start solids and are developmentally ready for new textures and flavors.
If your baby has severe eczema, a known food allergy, or a family history of allergies, consult your pediatrician before introducing allergens.
Which Foods Are Common Allergens?
The most common food allergens include:
- Peanuts
- Eggs
- Dairy (cow’s milk, yogurt, cheese)
- Tree nuts (almonds, cashews, walnuts, etc.)
- Wheat
- Soy
- Fish & Shellfish
- Sesame
These foods provide important nutrients, so incorporating them early can be beneficial for your baby’s diet.
How to Safely Introduce Allergens
Start with Low-Risk Foods First
Before introducing allergens, offer your baby a variety of low-risk foods (such as vegetables, fruits, and grains) to make sure they’re ready for solids.
Introduce One Allergen at a Time
Offer a small amount of a single allergenic food and wait 3-5 days before introducing another new allergen. This way, if your baby has a reaction, you’ll know which food caused it.
Begin with a Small Amount
Start with a tiny amount (e.g., a small spoonful of peanut butter mixed into puree or a piece of scrambled egg). If there’s no reaction, you can gradually increase the quantity over time.
Make Sure Baby is Healthy
Introduce allergens when your baby is healthy and not dealing with a cold, fever, or tummy upset. This makes it easier to identify any allergic reactions.
Offer Allergens in Safe Textures
Avoid giving whole nuts or large pieces of food that could pose a choking hazard. Instead, try:
- Peanut butter (thinned with water or breast milk)
- Well-cooked egg (scrambled or mashed)
- Dairy (plain yogurt or small amounts of cheese)
- Nut butters (spread thinly on soft bread or mixed into puree)
Keep a Close Eye for Reactions
After introducing an allergenic food, monitor your baby for about 2 hours for any signs of an allergic reaction.
Keep Allergens in the Diet Regularly
Once your baby has tolerated an allergenic food, offer it regularly (2-3 times per week) to help maintain tolerance.
Signs of an Allergic Reaction
Most reactions occur within minutes to two hours after eating. Watch for:
Mild Reactions:
- Redness around the mouth
- Mild rash or hives
- Runny nose or sneezing
- Mild stomach discomfort
Severe Reactions (Anaphylaxis – Call emergency services immediately):
- Swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
- Difficulty breathing or wheezing
- Vomiting or severe diarrhea
- Lethargy or sudden weakness
If your baby has a severe reaction, seek immediate medical help.
Introducing allergens early and often in a safe, controlled way may help reduce the risk of food allergies while expanding your baby’s diet. Start slow, observe reactions, and consult your doctor if you have concerns.
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How to Safely Introduce Allergens to Your Baby