Many parents wonder if their baby is suffering from an allergy or an intolerance. The difference lies in the immune system. A food allergy occurs when the immune system treats a substance as dangerous. This can occur within minutes to hours after eating a specific food and leads to symptoms such as skin rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, and breathing problems. Even a small amount of the allergen can trigger a reaction. Common allergens include peanuts, nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.
A food intolerance is a reaction from the digestive system, not the immune system. The body struggles to digest certain foods, such as lactose. Symptoms include bloating, stomach pain, a feeling of fullness, and diarrhea.
To figure out what’s going on, discuss your concerns with your doctor or health clinic.
How Does a Food Allergy Develop in a Baby?
Food allergies are more common in babies because their immune system is still developing. The allergy occurs when the immune system becomes hypersensitive to a specific substance in a food. After the first exposure to the allergen, the body may already start producing antibodies. A subsequent exposure triggers an allergic reaction.
To reduce the risk of food allergies, it’s recommended to introduce peanut butter and eggs to babies before 8 months of age. Does your baby have severe eczema or a food allergy? In this case, it’s especially important to introduce various foods early, such as eggs and peanut butter. This should be done before 6 months of age. Always discuss this with your child’s doctor or dietitian beforehand.
How to Recognize an Allergic Reaction?
An allergic reaction can occur immediately after eating, but sometimes only after repeated exposure. Look out for the following symptoms:
• Shrill or hoarse crying
• Excessive crying after eating a certain food
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Runny nose, sneezing, or coughing
• Skin rash, hives, or swelling
In severe reactions, such as breathing problems, medical help is necessary.
Atopic Dermatitis and Food Allergies
Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a common sign of a food allergy in babies. It often appears on the face, scalp, arms, legs, and knees. Babies with a family history of allergies, asthma, or eczema are at increased risk.
Cow’s Milk Protein Allergy: A Common Allergy in Babies
Cow’s milk allergy occurs in 2-3% of babies when they consume formula with cow’s milk. A baby can also react to cow’s milk proteins that the mother consumes through breast milk. Symptoms range from skin rashes and digestive issues to breathing problems.
If your child has a diagnosed cow’s milk allergy, goat’s milk is not a suitable alternative. This is a fact. In such cases, special formulas, such as extensively hydrolyzed formulas, are often recommended. Sometimes, children have trouble digesting cow’s milk, but this is not an allergy—it may be a sensitivity reaction. In this case, goat’s milk-based follow-up milk can be an alternative for your child. If you suspect your baby has an allergy, consult your doctor or health clinic.
When Should You Consult Your Doctor or Health Clinic?
Consult your doctor if:
• Your baby has severe eczema or atopic dermatitis.
• Your baby has previously had an allergic reaction.
• A sibling has a severe food allergy.
• There is a family history of food allergies.
How to Introduce Common Allergens?
Experts recommend introducing allergens between 4 and 6 months of age. This helps the immune system adjust to these foods and can reduce the risk of allergies.
Tips for a Safe Introduction:
• Only begin once your baby is accustomed to solid foods.
• Try introducing allergens at home, not in a restaurant.
• Introduce one new food at a time.
• Start with a small amount and gradually increase.
• Choose a time when you can closely observe your baby.
