How can we prevent our child’s food allergy?
The feeding of infants is a crucial stage of parenting that raises numerous challenges and questions. In the first months, breast milk or formula is the most important source of nutrition, as these provide the essential nutrients needed for the baby’s growth. However, as the child grows, the time comes for introducing complementary foods and new items. Proper nutrition is not only vital for physical development but also contributes to strengthening the immune system. Gradual introduction and attention to various allergens are particularly important to ensure the baby develops healthily and avoids potential allergic reactions.
Starting Infant Feeding
When beginning to feed infants, especially in the first six months, breastfeeding and breast milk play a significant role. The unique nutrient composition of breast milk is tailored precisely to the baby’s needs and provides immunological protection against various pathogens. The antibodies and beneficial substances found in breast milk help maintain the baby’s health. Experts recommend that new foods be introduced alongside continued breastfeeding until the child is one year old, thereby strengthening the baby’s immune system.
What to Give the Baby When Breast Milk is No Longer Sufficient?
Once the baby reaches the age when breast milk is no longer enough to meet their nutritional needs, the process of complementary feeding begins. Emphasis should be placed on gradual introduction of new foods rather than the order of introduction. The infant’s digestive system is sensitive, so it is advisable to introduce new foods gradually and in small amounts. Gradually familiarizing the baby with allergens is also important, as this helps the baby’s immune system better tolerate new foods.
The ideal time for introducing allergens is between the 17th and 26th weeks, when the baby’s immune system can respond to new nutrients. Gradually introducing different foods can prevent allergic reactions that may cause problems in the future. To strengthen the immune system, it is important for the baby to experience a variety of tastes and textures, thus establishing diverse eating habits.
Which Allergens Require Special Attention?
During complementary feeding, attention should be paid to allergens that require close monitoring of the baby’s reactions. The first such allergen is gluten, found in grains. Introducing gluten between the 17th and 26th weeks is recommended, as this can reduce the risk of developing celiac disease. Foods containing gluten, such as wheat flour or wheat flakes, can be gradually added to the baby’s diet.
The next allergen is milk and dairy products, which are recommended for introduction at 9-10 months of age. Plain yogurt and fruit cottage cheese can be ideal choices. Introducing cow’s milk before 12 months is not recommended, as its composition does not meet the infant’s needs.
Eggs are another ingredient that can cause allergic reactions. Egg yolk can be introduced from 10 months, while egg white is better introduced after the age of one. Small-seeded fruits like strawberries, blackberries, or raspberries are also sources of allergens and should only be introduced after the age of two.
The introduction of nuts and fish also requires caution. Consumption of nuts is not recommended before the age of one due to the risk of choking, while fish is a tasty and nutritious food that should be introduced carefully to avoid allergic reactions.
The Role of Parents in Baby Nutrition
Parents play a key role in the baby’s nutrition. By introducing a variety of healthy foods, they can contribute to the child’s healthy development and help establish future eating habits. Discovering new tastes and textures is an exciting adventure that lays the foundation for the toddler’s interest in healthy eating.
