As your baby grows, you may be wondering when it’s time to start introducing allergens to their diet. It’s an important question, as doing so can help your child avoid food allergies later in life. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. What are Allergens?

Allergens are substances that can cause an allergic reaction in some people. Common allergens include peanuts, milk, eggs, soy, fish, wheat, and tree nuts.

2. When Should You Introduce Allergens to Your Baby?

According to recent guidelines, parents should introduce allergenic foods to their babies before they turn one. Waiting too long to introduce these foods may increase the risk of food allergies.

3. How Can You Introduce Allergens to Your Baby?

When introducing allergens, it’s important to do so in small amounts and one at a time. Wait a few days between each introduction to monitor your baby’s reaction. If they develop any symptoms such as hives, swelling, or vomiting, stop giving them that food and contact your doctor.

4. What are the Benefits of Introducing Allergens to Baby?

Research suggests that introducing allergens to baby can actually lower their risk of developing food allergies later in life. One study found that introducing peanuts to infants reduced their risk of developing a peanut allergy by up to 86 percent.

5. What are the Risks of Introducing Allergens to Baby?

While introducing allergens to baby is generally safe, there is always a risk of an allergic reaction. This is why it’s important to introduce them in small amounts and one at a time.

6. What Should You Do if Your Baby Has an Allergic Reaction?

If your baby has an allergic reaction, stop giving them the food and contact your doctor right away. Your doctor may recommend an antihistamine or epinephrine, depending on the severity of the reaction.

7. How Can You Help Prevent Food Allergies in Your Baby?

In addition to introducing allergens early, there are other steps you can take to help prevent food allergies in your baby. Breastfeeding for at least six months may help reduce the risk of allergies, as can avoiding smoking during pregnancy and after birth. Additionally, it’s important to wait to introduce solid foods until your baby is at least four months old.

8. What Foods Should You Avoid Giving Your Baby?

In addition to allergenic foods such as peanuts and eggs, there are other foods and drinks that should be avoided in babies. These include honey, which may contain botulism spores, and cow’s milk, which can be difficult for babies to digest.

9. How Can You Tell if Your Baby is Ready for Solid Foods?

Every baby is different, but most are ready for solid foods between four and six months of age. Signs that your baby is ready for solids include being able to sit upright with support, having good head and neck control, and showing an interest in food.

10. What are Some Good First Foods for Your Baby?

When introducing solids, it’s best to start with single-ingredient purees such as rice cereal, mashed sweet potato, or avocado. These foods are easy to digest and less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

Introducing allergens to baby is an important step in their development. By following the guidelines and introducing allergenic foods in small amounts, you can help reduce your child’s risk of developing food allergies later in life. Always consult with your doctor if you have any concerns or questions about introducing new foods to your baby.