Baby Food 101 :: Food Allergies

When beginning the solid food journey, you need to be aware of the possibility of food allergies in your little one. If allergies to any foods run in your immediate family, it is recommended to get your child tested before introducing baby foods at all. If allergies do not run in your family, there are still some foods you should be aware of and careful when feeding baby.

It is a good idea to introduce each food, one at a time, for 3-5 days each, to see if any allergic reactions are presented.

Some common food allergy symptoms include:

• Rashes, especially on the face
• Diaper rash
• Hives
• Diarrhea, gas or vomiting
• Change in temperament; irritability
• Puffy or runny eyes and/or runny nose; sneezing
• Breathing problems
• Sudden drowsiness

*If you notice any of these symptoms (or any other suspicious symptoms), call your pediatrician right away. Some symptoms will remain mild but some can get worse if untreated.*

Some common allergy-produsing foods include:

• Berries, especially strawberries
• Chocolate
• Citrus fruits {oranges, pineapples, lemons, limes, etc..}
• Cow’s milk
• Eggs
• Fish
• Peanuts and other nuts
• Soy
• Honey
• Wheat

When introducing these common allergy-producing foods with your little one, be very careful and go slowly; there is no rush. With most of these items, they are best introduced after baby is 12 months old. Some even recommend not giving peanuts, or nuts in general, to children younger than 2. Again, if anyone in your immediate family deals with food allergies or intolerances, your doctor will most likely do allergy testing on your little one to help prevent any problems with food.

It is also common for some children to be allergic or sensitive to certain dyes and preservatives in processed foods. These reactions are remedied with a healthy diet of fresh and homemade baby food are perfect for filling sensitive bellies!

Thankfully, most allergic reactions in young ones are temporary and those specific allergy-inducing foods can be introduced when baby gets a little older. So try not to fret if your little one does show signs of an allergy or intolerance because it may not be permanent! You won’t know for sure until a bit later in life so why worry about it now… Just relax and enjoy your little one every single day, while giving them the best baby foods available; ones created in your very own kitchen.