Baby Food Allergies: How to Identify and Avoid Them?

There are no precise statistics on baby food allergies in India. However, did you know? Around 3% of infants in the U.S face food allergies even before they turn one.

Most parents struggle to identify symptoms and treat food allergies while ensuring proper nutrition and the safety of the baby. Early detection and prevention are crucial for parents, as food allergies can cause severe reactions in babies and are life-threatening.

This article is highly beneficial for parents who are looking for a comprehensive guide on identification, prevention, signs and symptoms of food allergies in babies.

6 Common Food Allergens For Babies

Are you ready to introduce solids to your 6-month-old? Check out our list of the most common food allergies in Indian babies that may trigger an allergic reaction in your baby.

 

1) Cow’s Milk and Dairy Products

Milk protein and lactose are common allergens found in milk, known to cause skin rashes and stomach discomfort. The symptoms develop within a short duration after the baby has consumed any form of milk or dairy.

2) Eggs (particularly egg whites)

Eggs, especially egg whites, are known to trigger food allergies in many babies and infants. It can cause symptoms in the form of skin hives or an upset stomach.

3) Peanuts and Tree Nuts

Peanuts and other tree nuts like almonds and cashews are one of the most common allergens in babies or young children. Nuts can cause severe and immediate reactions like anaphylaxis.

4) Wheat and Gluten

Infants and toddlers can be sensitive to gluten, which is mainly present in wheat. It sometimes leads to an upset stomach and skin irritation.

5) Soy Products

Most baby formulas contain soy as a major source of protein for babies. However, some babies can be allergic to soy, which can cause colic and constipation.

6) Fish and Shellfish

Seafood allergies are less common in infants and toddlers, but pose a danger of severe allergic responses in babies who are exposed to them.

5 Signs and Symptoms of Food Allergies in Babies

Early detection of food allergies in babies can prevent severe health issues and life-threatening reactions. The probable symptoms can range from mild to severe, and parents should always look out for the reactions below.

1) Skin Reactions (Hives, Rashes, Eczema)

These are the most common allergic reactions, which occur immediately after exposure to the allergen.

2) Digestive Issues (Diarrhea, Vomiting, Colic)

Another common food allergy is stomach discomfort that can cause diarrhea, gas, colic, constipation, and vomiting.

3) Respiratory Symptoms (Coughing, Wheezing)

Food allergens can trigger respiratory-related responses, such as coughing, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.

4) Behavioral Changes (Sleep Disturbance, Irritability)

Some food allergies may cause a child to exhibit behavioral changes, such as irritability and sleep disturbances, after consuming certain foods.

5) Severe Reactions: signs of anaphylaxis to watch for

Some extreme cases of allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis, which may involve symptoms such as throat swelling, breathlessness, and reduced blood circulation. Such cases require prompt medical intervention.

When and How to Introduce Allergenic Foods to Babies

One question that haunts every parent of a six-month-old is when to introduce allergenic foods to babies. Follow the process below when introducing foods to babies that cause allergic reactions.

1. Current medical advice on early introduction

Pediatricians and medical experts now recommend introducing allergenic foods like peanuts and eggs at 4 to 6 months to help reduce the risk of developing a food allergy in children.

2. The 3-day rule for introducing new foods

It is advisable to wait three days after introducing a new food before introducing another new food. This helps determine potential allergic reactions in your baby or infant.

3. Age-appropriate introduction timeline

Cereal and vegetables may be offered from 6 months of age alongside fruits. Gradually introduce eggs, dairy, and nuts while under your pediatrician's supervision of your baby.

4. How to safely introduce potential allergens

Allergenic foods should be introduced in small amounts while constantly watching for signs of an allergic reaction. If no signs are present, more of the food can be added each time.

5. Foods to avoid until certain ages

Whole nuts, honey, and some types of shellfish should not be given until the child is over 12 months of age.

How to Tell if Baby Has Food Allergy

If you see any signs of the common food allergies listed above, it is best to have them properly diagnosed to ensure safety for the child.

1. When to consult a paediatrician

Should your baby show any signs of allergic reaction, it is best to consult your baby’s paediatrician, who will suggest whether the described symptoms are allergic in nature or not.

2. Types of allergy testing for babies

Food allergies can be diagnosed using skin prick tests or blood tests, as suggested by the medical practitioners. They can also recommend elimination diets to diagnose the cause of the trigger.

3. Food elimination diets and challenges

This is the process of removing suspected food allergies from the baby's diet and then gradually reintroducing them under medical supervision to determine if an allergy exists or to diagnose an existing allergy.

4. Keeping a food diary for your baby

Tracking your baby’s food intake and allergic reactions can help your baby’s paediatrician figure out which foods may be causing an allergic reaction.

How to Prevent Food Allergies in Infants and Babies?

Managing food allergies is a careful task that must be followed every time you feed your baby. Here are a few steps you can take to reduce your child’s allergen exposure.

1. Creating an allergy-free meal plan

Meal planning for your baby should be done to make sure that the food services are free from any allergens and are safe for your baby. Always check the labels if you are serving packed food and speak to your baby’s paediatrician.

2. Reading food labels for hidden allergens

Many packaged foods contain hidden allergens, such as peanuts or milk solids. Always check the labels for potential allergens.

3. Cross-contamination concerns

Be cautious of cross-contamination when preparing a baby’s food. This is very common in shared kitchen spaces.

4. Breastfeeding Considerations

The chances of developing a food allergy are slimmer with exclusive breastfeeding for 4-6 months. Make sure to be careful with your diet if you are breastfeeding, since some allergens can go through breast milk.

5. Hypo-allergenic formulas available in India

Many babies cannot tolerate regular formulas; for such babies, hypoallergenic formulas are available in India, designed to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.

Living with Baby Food Allergies

If your child has a potential food allergy, food preparation can be a little challenging. However, with proper food planning, baby food prep can be hassle-free.

1. Communicating with caregivers and family

Make sure that all caregivers, whether family members, doula, or daycare nannies, understand the severity of the food allergies. Make them aware of the measures they need to take in the event of a reaction.

2. Eating out with food-allergic children

When going out to eat with your baby, always carry home-cooked meals. In case you have to offer outside food to your baby, do not hesitate to inquire about the ingredients used in the dish.

3. Creating emergency action plans

Create an emergency action plan with your baby’s paediatrician that outlines the steps to administering epinephrine in the event of anaphylaxis.

4. When and how allergies may be outgrown

A baby may become tolerant to food allergy with age. Therefore, make sure to visit your baby’s paediatrician regularly to keep track of allergies and monitor allergy progression.

5. Find support groups in India

The Indian Allergy and Asthma Society offers guidance and counselling to parents that can prove highly beneficial when dealing with the reality of food allergies.

Key Takeaways

Food allergies in babies are concerning and sometimes a serious issue that must be addressed and treated at an early stage. It is possible to manage a baby’s health by recognizing the signs of common allergens before introducing solids.

An early diagnosis, a proper food plan, and effective crisis management can help the baby grow in a safe and healthy environment.

Also Read:

1. 5 Super Foods For Your Baby’s Health
2. 8 Foods That May Be Causing Diaper Rash in Babies
3. How to Improve Appetite in Babies: 5 Tips
4. How to Boost My Child’s Immunity Naturally? 30 Superfoods to Try
5. Baby's First Foods - A Straightforward Guide To Starting Solids