Concerned about food allergies for your little one? Stay vigilant, especially if you or family members have allergies. These reactions can affect any baby, even without genetic risks, typically before age 4 as their digestive and immune systems develop. Watch for symptoms like colic, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Common triggers include cow's milk (from birth to 3 months), eggs, wheat, exotic fruits such as banana, mango, and kiwi, plus tree nuts like peanuts. Children often react more to animal-sourced allergens, unlike adults who tend toward plant-based ones.
Introduce fruits and vegetables one at a time after 4 months—always cooked, stewed, or pureed—waiting one week between each to monitor reactions. Start meat, eggs, and fish at 6-8 months; for at-risk babies, delay eggs and fish until 12 months, and kiwi until 18 months.
Breastfeeding provides key protection. The WHO advises exclusive breastfeeding for 3-6 months. Mothers with family allergy history should cut back on triggers like milk and eggs to limit allergens in breast milk.
The main treatment? Strictly avoid problem foods. Many allergies, including to eggs and milk, fade between ages 3 and 5.
Insights from Dr. Fabienne Rancé, pediatric allergist at Toulouse University Hospital's Children's Hospital, and ANSES (French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety).
