Infants and children commonly experience allergies. A food allergy
occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to a certain food as if it
is dangerous or harmful, triggering symptoms that range from mild to
severe (see
Signs of an allergic reaction
on page 23). While children
often outgrow allergies to milk, eggs, soy and wheat, allergies to
peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish are more likely to be permanent
[5]
.
Certain foods may cause an allergic reaction in babies,
so we
recommend staying vigilant for at least the first year of feeding. Current
guidelines recommend introducing allergenic foods when your baby
starts consuming puréed foods (~6 months). Evidence has shown that
delaying the introduction of such foods may actually increase a child’s
risk of developing a food allergy. Keep in mind that a child can develop
an allergic response at any time, even after initial exposure. Babies
require constant monitoring as they’re exposed to new foods during
these early stages.
It is also important to remember that every baby is different. Consider
your family’s history of allergic reactions to food, as this may play a
factor.
It is vital to consult with your pediatrician before introducing any
foods, especially those that are known to provoke allergic reactions.
We recommend introducing new foods one at a time and earlier in
the day
,
so you are able to contact your pediatrician during normal
business hours in the event of an allergic reaction.
Allergy alert.
Introducing highly
allergenic foods.
Please note that the decision
to introduce highly allergenic
foods is a personal one to
make in consultation with your
pediatrician. If your infant already
shows signs of a food allergy, or
if a sibling has a peanut allergy
[6]
, your pediatrician may refer
you to an allergist for testing and
personalized guidance.
Top food allergens:
• cow’s milk
• egg
• soy
• wheat
• peanuts
• tree nuts
• fish
• shellfish
NOTE:
Be sure to confirm a food allergy diagnosis with your pediatrician to avoid
unnecessary dietary restrictions for you and your baby.
Signs of an allergic reaction.
Mild to moderate
reactions
Easier to identify in children
and adults who can verbalize
something is wrong.
More
difficult to identify in infants.
LOOK OUT FOR:
• hives or welts
• swelling of lips, face,
or eyes
• tingling of the mouth
• abdominal pain
or vomiting
Severe
reactions
Can be deadly and require
immediate medical attention.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
IMMEDIATELY - DO NOT DELAY.
Remember these symptoms are
difficult to identify in anyone,
especially infants and children, so
be on the alert when introducing
new foods to your child
[7, 8, 9]
.
LOOK OUT FOR:
• difficult/noisy breathing
• swelling of the tongue
• swelling or tightness
in the throat
• difficulty talking and/or
hoarse voice
• wheezing or
persistent cough
• persistent dizziness
or collapse
• pale skin, floppy movements
NOTE: Even a small allergic
reaction can be the first sign of a
severe reaction. Please call your
pediatrician at any sign of an
allergic reaction!
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