ToP EigHt FoOd AllerGens

the following food allergens account for an estimated 90% of allergic reactions :

• cow’s milk
• egg whites 
• peanuts
• tree nuts (e.g. : almond, cashew, walnut)
• fish (e.g. : bass, cod, flounder)
• shellfish (e.g. crab, lobster, shrimp)
• soy
• wheat

rule of the thumb is that introduction of these foods should be done gradually and in stages, one at a time, and by watching for any sign of allergic reactions. by doing this, parents can easily pinpoint the culprit rather than to have a whole long list to scratch your head over.

it is also best to introduce new foods during the day as this will enable you to spot and deal with any adverse reactions when help is readily available. imagine the stress of trying to look for a pediatrician should an allergic reaction arise in the middle of the night!