Don't avoid foods out of fear - early introduction of allergenic foods actually REDUCES allergy risk! Research shows introducing common allergens between 6-12 months is protective. Food allergies affect only 5-8% of children, and most are manageable. This guide will help you introduce foods safely and recognize the difference between true allergies and sensitivities.
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Food Allergy (Khaane se allergy):
Food Sensitivity/Intolerance (Khaane se taklif):
| Feature | Food Allergy | Food Sensitivity |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | Minutes to 2 hours | Hours to 3 days |
| Cause | Immune system | Digestive system |
| Severity | Can be life-threatening | Uncomfortable but not dangerous |
| Symptoms | Hives, swelling, breathing issues | Gas, bloating, loose motions |
| Detection | Easier (fast reaction) | Harder (delayed reaction) |
These 8 foods cause 90% of allergies in children:
| Food | Indian Context | When to Introduce |
|---|---|---|
| **Milk/Dairy (Doodh)** | Cow's milk protein in formula | Dairy products from 6 months; whole milk after 1 year |
| **Eggs (Ande)** | Very common in Indian diet | From 6 months - start with well-cooked |
| **Peanuts (Moongphali)** | Common in chikki, groundnut chutney | Peanut butter/powder from 6 months |
| **Tree Nuts (Dry fruits)** | Badam, kaju, akhrot | Powdered/butter form from 6 months |
| **Wheat (Gehun)** | Roti, chapati, bread | From 6 months - start small |
| **Soy (Soya)** | Tofu, soy milk | From 6 months |
| **Fish (Machli)** | Common in coastal areas | From 6 months - well-cooked |
| **Shellfish** | Prawns, crab, lobster | Can wait till 1 year |
Call ambulance or rush to hospital if:
This is anaphylaxis - a medical emergency!
Less urgent but needs doctor visit:
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Wait until 6 months
2. Introduce ONE allergenic food at a time
3. Start with small amounts
4. Give in morning
5. Continue giving regularly
| Food | How to Give (6+ months) |
|---|---|
| **Egg** | Well-cooked scrambled egg, start with 1/4 teaspoon yolk |
| **Peanut** | Thin peanut butter mixed in porridge (NOT whole peanuts - choking hazard!) |
| **Wheat** | Small piece of soft roti, daliya |
| **Dairy** | Dahi, paneer (not cow's milk as main drink) |
| **Fish** | Soft, cooked, deboned fish mashed |
| **Tree nuts** | Almond powder in milk/porridge |
Mild reaction (hives only, no breathing issues):
Severe reaction:
If your child has diagnosed food allergy:
Common allergens in Indian packaged foods:
A: Having allergies in the family increases risk but doesn't guarantee allergy. Studies show EARLY introduction (not avoidance!) reduces risk even in high-risk babies. Don't delay introducing allergenic foods - give them from 6 months as recommended. If very concerned, introduce first at home (not restaurant) or during pediatrician office hours.
A: Not necessarily! Rash around mouth from acidic foods (tomato, citrus) or contact irritation is common and NOT allergy. True allergic hives are raised, itchy, appear on body (not just mouth), and happen within 2 hours of eating. If hives spread, cause swelling, or baby seems unwell - that's more concerning. Take photo and consult doctor.
A: Breastfeeding for at least 4-6 months does help! When introducing solids, continue breastfeeding. Interestingly, eating allergenic foods while breastfeeding may actually help baby develop tolerance - don't avoid foods in your diet unless baby reacts.
A: No, not too late! Research shows introducing between 6-12 months is beneficial. Start now with well-cooked egg (small amount), watching for reaction. It's better to introduce now than wait longer. The recommendation to wait till 1 year is outdated.
A: Probably not allergy - allergic reactions happen within 2 hours and cause specific symptoms (hives, vomiting, breathing issues). Night waking after new foods could be: normal sleep pattern change, tummy adjustment to new food, gas from new food, or coincidence. Give foods during day to monitor better. If baby has blood in stool or severe symptoms, then consult doctor.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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