Watch this video to learn more about food allergies and feeding your baby:
A food allergy happens when the body reacts against harmless proteins found in foods. This reaction usually happens shortly after eating.
Foods that may cause an allergy include:
- Peanuts
- Egg
- Cow milk products (cow’s milk should not be introduced until 1 year
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
- Shellfish
- Fish
- Soy
- Sesame
These foods should be introduced between 4-6 months of age, when your baby begins eating other foods. Introduce common allergy foods one by one so that if an allergic reaction occurs, it will be easy to find the problem food. Giving peanut-containing foods in the first year can reduce the risk of a food allergy to peanuts.
Watch this video for tips on how to include peanut foods for your baby:
Watch your baby for any possible allergic reactions. These may include diarrhea, vomiting, a swollen face, wheezing, or a rash. Spitting up is usually not a food allergy reaction.
Seek medical care right away if your child has signs of a food allergy. Also, talk to your doctor if anyone in your family has a food allergy or if your baby has eczema.