SiGns oF AllerGic ReAcTion To FoOD

here are some of the signs that a baby could be having allergic reaction to a new food.

• sudden loose, diarrhea stools and/or vomiting
• sudden rashes on the skin and bottom
• runny nose
• hives
• irritability and/or gassiness
• breathing or other respiratory troubles
• swelling of the face, lips and/or tongue
• closure or tightening of the throat

should you have just introduced a new food to your baby and he/she is showing any of these signs, get help immediately! don’t wait!

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!