Starting Solids Part 3: Introducing Allergens

Introducing Allergens to Your Baby: A Guide for Parents Starting Solids

Starting solids is a big milestone in your baby’s development. As exciting as it is to introduce new foods, one of the most important things to think about during this stage is food allergies. Food allergies affect many children, and early introduction of potential allergens can help reduce the risk of developing them. Here’s a guide to safely introducing allergens to your baby as they begin their journey with solid foods.

Why Early Introduction of Allergens Matters

Research suggests that early introduction of common allergens can help reduce the likelihood of developing food allergies later in life. In fact, studies like the LEAP (Learning Early About Peanut Allergy) trial have shown that early introduction of peanuts significantly lowers the risk of developing a peanut allergy.

Introducing allergens early can help your baby’s immune system become familiar with these foods, potentially training it to tolerate them. But it’s important to do this in a safe and controlled manner, keeping an eye out for any signs of allergic reactions.

It's also important to note that family history plays a significant role in your baby's risk of developing food allergies. If either parent or a sibling has a history of allergies—whether to food, pollen, dust, or pet dander—your baby may have an increased risk of developing food allergies as well.

When to Introduce Allergens

The ideal time to introduce allergenic foods is when your baby starts solids, typically around 6 months of age. Before you begin, it’s important to ensure that your baby is developmentally ready for solids. They should be able to sit up with minimal support, have good head control, and show interest in food.

You may wonder which allergens to focus on. The most common food allergens include:

·         Dairy

·         Eggs

·         Soy

·         Peanuts

·         Tree nuts

·         Wheat

·         Fish and Shellfish

In this blog, we’ll focus on how to introduce the most common allergens in a way that minimizes risk and maximizes safety.

Step-by-Step Guide to Introducing Allergens

1. Start with One Allergen at a Time

When introducing an allergen, it’s crucial to do so one food at a time. This makes it easier to identify which food may be causing an allergic reaction if one occurs. Start by offering a small amount of the allergenic food, and wait for 3 to 5 days before introducing another new food. This period gives you time to monitor for any allergic reactions.

 2. Begin with a Small Amount

Start by offering a small, manageable amount of the food. For example, give a spoonful or a small piece of the allergenic food, depending on whether you are doing spoon-feeding or baby-led weaning (BLW). If you’re introducing peanut butter, mix it with breast milk or formula to thin it out and reduce the risk of choking.

 3. Monitor for Reactions

After offering a new allergen, closely monitor your baby for any signs of an allergic reaction. Symptoms to watch out for include:

·         Skin reactions: Redness, hives, swelling, or itching around the face, mouth, or other parts of the body.

·         Gastrointestinal issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, or excessive gas.

·         Respiratory problems: Wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, or a runny nose.

·         Anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction): This is rare, but it's important to be aware of this life-threatening condition, which includes trouble breathing, swelling of the throat, and a sudden drop in blood pressure. Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention.

If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, contact your doctor immediately. If it’s severe or involves difficulty breathing, call emergency services right away.

 4. Introducing Specific Allergens

Let’s look at how to safely introduce some of the most common allergens:

·         Dairy: Cow’s milk itself should not be introduced as a main drink until after your baby is one year old, as it can interfere with iron absorption. However, dairy products like yogurt and cheese can be introduced at 6 months. Start with small amounts of full-fat plain yogurt or soft cheeses and watch for any signs of intolerance.

·         Eggs: Eggs are a common allergen, but many babies can tolerate them without issue. Begin with scrambled eggs or hard-boiled eggs, cut into manageable pieces. If you’re introducing eggs for the first time, start with a small portion and observe for any reactions

·         Peanuts: Peanut allergies are on the rise, but introducing peanuts early can help prevent the allergy. To safely introduce peanuts, mix smooth peanut butter with breast milk or formula to create a runny consistency. You can also try peanut powder or peanut butter thinned into a puree for babies who are just starting solids. Avoid whole peanuts, as they pose a choking hazard.

·         Tree Nuts: Tree nuts, like almonds, cashews, and walnuts, are also potential allergens. As with peanuts, nut butters or nut flours can be mixed into other foods to introduce them to your baby. Avoid giving whole nuts, as they are a choking hazard.

·         Fish and Shellfish: Fish and shellfish are important sources of omega-3 fatty acids, but they’re also common allergens. Introduce these foods carefully by offering small amounts of well-cooked fish, such as salmon or cod, and make sure to avoid any bones. For shellfish, start with a small portion of well-cooked prawn or crab, ensuring it’s finely chopped.

·         Wheat and Soy: Wheat and soy are common allergens, but they are often easier to introduce because they’re found in many baby foods, including cereals and crackers. If you’re concerned, you can introduce these foods in small amounts, keeping an eye on how your baby responds.

 5. What to Do if an Allergic Reaction Occurs

If your baby has a mild reaction, such as skin irritation or hives, contact your paediatrician. They may recommend antihistamines or other treatments. For severe reactions, particularly if your baby has difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, call emergency services immediately. Your doctor may also give you guidance on next steps, including potential testing for allergies.

Introducing allergens to your baby when they start solids can seem daunting, but research shows that early and gradual introduction is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of allergies later on. By following a cautious, one-food-at-a-time approach and keeping a close eye out for any allergic reactions, you can confidently navigate this stage of your baby’s development. Consult your health provider if you have concerns or questions about introducing allergens, and remember that a little patience and vigilance can go a long way in creating a healthy, allergy-free future for your little one.