Dr Monique Piderit, RD (SA)
Parents often worry about introducing allergens to their babies, but guess what? Delaying it can increase the risk of food allergies. The truth is true food allergies are less common than you might think. Preventing allergies early on can improve your family’s quality of life, and the benefits far outweigh the small risk of a reaction.
What’s a Food Allergy, Anyway?
A food allergy happens when the body’s immune system mistakes a food for a threat. It releases antibodies, and the next time the food is eaten, histamines are released, causing allergy symptoms. Think of it as your body’s overprotective response!
Spotting the Signs
Allergic reactions can appear quickly, usually within a couple of hours. Symptoms can be mild, like watery eyes, skin rashes, or hives, or more severe, like tongue swelling and difficulty breathing. If you see severe symptoms, stop the food and get to a Doctor ASAP!
The Usual Suspects
In South Africa, the big nine are cow’s milk, egg, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soybean, fish, shellfish, and sulphites. In Europe, sesame seeds, lupin, mustard, and celery join the list. These are the foods to watch out for when introducing new tastes to your baby.
The Real Risk
Surprisingly, actual food allergies are rare. In South Africa, only about 2.5% of children are allergic to common allergens like egg, fish, peanuts, and milk. Cow’s milk and egg allergies are more likely in the first three years of life, and peanut allergies are on the rise, with about 1 in 50 kids affected.
Family Ties
If one parent has an allergy, there’s a 30-50% chance the baby will inherit it. If both parents have allergies, the risk jumps to 60-80%. If you or your partner have a food allergy, consider introducing that food last and seek guidance from a registered dietitian.
Introducing Allergens: Tips for Success
- Start at 6 Months: Begin introducing allergenic foods once your baby starts solids.
- Mix It Up: Blend nut butters into pureed veggies or use wheat-based cereal with breast milk.
- One at a Time: Introduce one potential allergen at a time for three days, monitoring for reactions.
- Daytime Only: Introduce new foods during the day when you can watch for symptoms, not before naps.
Knowledge is Power!
While introducing allergens can be daunting, remember that the risk of food allergies is lower than many believe. Experts now recommend introducing potential allergens as soon as weaning begins. Early introduction of foods like eggs can even reduce allergy risks.
So, embark on this exciting adventure of flavours with your little one. With the right approach, you can help prevent food allergies and make mealtime a fun and safe experience.
