Allergy alert
Infants and children commonly experience allergies. A food allergy
occurs when the body's immune system reacts to a certain food as if
it is dangerous or harmful, triggering symptoms that range from mild
Signs of an allergic reaction
to severe (see
often outgrow allergies to milk, eggs, soy and wheat, allergies to
peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish are more likely to be permanent [5].
Certain foods may cause an allergic reaction in
recommend staying vigilant for at least the first year of feeding. Current
guidelines recommend introducing allergenic foods when your baby
starts consuming puréed foods (~6 months). Evidence has shown that
delaying the introduction of such foods may actually increase a child's
risk of developing a food allergy. Keep in mind that a child can develop
an allergic response at any time, even after initial exposure. Babies
require constant monitoring as they're exposed to new foods during
these early stages.
It is also important to remember that every baby is different. Consider
your family's history of allergic reactions to food, as this may play a
factor.
It is vital to consult with your pediatrician before introducing
any foods, especially those that are known to provoke allergic
reactions.
We recommend introducing new foods one at a time and earlier in
the
day, so you are able to contact your pediatrician during normal
business hours in the event of an allergic reaction.
Introducing highly
allergenic foods.
Please note that the decision
to introduce highly allergenic
foods is a personal one to
make in consultation with
your pediatrician. If your
infant already shows signs of
a food allergy, or if a sibling
has a peanut allergy [6], your
pediatrician may refer you
to an allergist for testing and
personalized guidance.
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on page 19). While children
babies, so we
Top food allergens:
• cow's milk
• egg
• soy
• wheat
• peanuts
• tree nuts
• fish
• shellfish
Signs of an allergic reaction
Mild to moderate reactions
Easier to identify in children
and adults who can verbalize
something is wrong. More
difficult to identify in infants.
LOOK OUT FOR:
• hives or welts
• swelling of lips, face, or eyes
• tingling of the mouth
• abdominal pain or vomiting
NOTE:
Be sure to confirm a food allergy diagnosis with your pediatrician to avoid
unnecessary dietary restrictions for you and your baby.
Severe reactions
Can be deadly and require
immediate medical attention.
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION
IMMEDIATELY - DO NOT DELAY.
Remember these symptoms are
difficult to identify in anyone,
especially infants and children, so
be on the alert when introducing
new foods to your child
[7, 8,
9].
LOOK OUT FOR:
• difficult/noisy breathing
• swelling of the tongue
• swelling or tightness in the
throat
• difficulty talking and/or
hoarse voice
• wheezing or persistent cough
• persistent dizziness or
collapse
• pale skin, floppy movements
NOTE: Even a small allergic
reaction can be the first sign of a
severe reaction. Please call your
pediatrician at any sign of an
allergic reaction!
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