Feeding problems: Food allergies

Having a baby with food allergies is a major source of anxiety for parents, and the number of such babies is on the rise. A study published in the Journal of Pediatrics analyzed data from 512 infants, ages three to 15 months who were either diagnosed with or were at risk for allergies to milk, eggs, or peanuts.

Over a 36 month time period, 72 percent of these children had at least one reaction, and 53 percent had more than one. That’s a staggering statistic. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (ACAAI), if both parents have allergies, their children have about a 75 percent chance of being allergic. If one parent is allergic, their child has a 30 to 40 percent chance of having some form of allergy. Here are some things parents need to know about food allergies to help keep their baby healthy and safe. 

What is a Food Allergy?

Allergies occur when your baby’s immune system reacts to a particular food as though it’s harmful. Antibodies and other substances that cause an allergic reaction are released when the offending food is eaten, or sometimes even just touched. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 90 percent of food allergies are triggered by eight types of foods: Milk, eggs, peanuts and tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, and cashews), wheat, soy, shellfish (lobster, crab, and shrimp), and fish.

Symptoms of Food Allergies

Within a few minutes to one hour after eating, symptoms of a food allergy can occur. A few symptoms to look for according to the CDC include: A person can experience multiple symptoms at once in severe cases. This life-threatening reaction is known as anaphylaxis.

• Hives (red, raised welts)
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Coughing or wheezing
• Swelling around the lips, tongue, or eyes
• Tingling in the mouth
• Difficulty breathing
• Abdominal cramps
• Eczema or rash
• Loss of consciousness
• Dizziness

Prevention and Treatment for Food Allergies

If you think your child has food allergies, call your healthcare provider. They will test your baby and if necessary, supply you with information regarding dietary changes and prescribe any needed medications.

If you find out your child does indeed have food allergies, be vigilant and avoid foods that cause the problem. Read labels to make sure your child isn’t eating something they are allergic to, watch what ingredients you use when cooking or preparing their meals.

When eating at restaurants or other people’s homes ask if the dishes contain the food your child is allergic to. Also, educate your child and their caregivers about any foods they are allergic to and help them become their own best advocate.

Dr. Clair McCarthy, contributor to boston.com, says “It’s best to make it a rule that the child shouldn’t eat something without checking with a parent or the person the parent designates to be the Food Checker in their absence.”

Help your child develop a script of what to ask or say when offered food by another person. Medical research about food allergies is continuing, so the best thing you can do is to get educated and ask for help. If you have any questions about food and your baby, don’t hesitate to ask your health care provider.