As new parents, it seems like every day brings a new question. “When should I introduce solid foods?” “Is it too soon for peanuts?” “What about eggs?” Recent research has shed light on these questions, encouraging parents to introduce common allergens like peanuts and eggs to their infants’ diets early on—typically around 5 to 6 months of age.
Let’s dive into why introducing these foods can be a peanutty path to health and happiness for your little one!
Breaking the Allergy Barrier
For many years, pediatric allergists have advised delaying the introduction of allergenic foods to babies. Unfortunately, this approach might have been counterproductive. Studies now suggest that early introduction of allergenic foods, especially peanuts and eggs, can actually help prevent the development of food allergies.
One groundbreaking study, known as the LEAP (Learning Early About Peanut) study, showed that infants who were regularly fed peanut protein (1 gm/day) from as early as 4 to 11 months had a significantly lower risk of developing a peanut allergy compared to those who avoided peanuts. This “feeding instead of fearing” approach has led to a shift in dietary guidelines globally.
When and How to Introduce Allergens
While starting solids is typically 5-6 months, introducing products like peanut protein powder and Bamba (both sold at Trader Joe’s) has made it easy to introduce peanuts before solids. This timing is crucial because the infant’s immune system is developing in ways that determine whether it will react to a food protein as an allergen or not.
Here’s how you can introduce these foods safely:
- Start Small: Begin with a tiny amount of peanut protein or butter thinned with breast milk, formula, or water. You can do the same with eggs, perhaps starting with a small amount of well-cooked egg.
- Watch Closely: Keep an eye on your baby for any signs of a reaction, including hives, difficulty breathing, or vomiting. If any of these occur, contact your pediatrician immediately or go to an emergency room if it is after hours.
- Go Slow: If the initial introduction goes well, gradually increase the amount over time.
- Keep it Regular: Once introduced, keep these foods in your child’s diet regularly. (infants in the Leap study were consistently given 7 gm/week) to maintain tolerance.
Why Egg and Peanuts?
Eggs and peanuts are not just common allergens but also packed with nutrients. Eggs are a great source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Peanuts are rich in energy and contain healthful fats, protein, and several vitamins. They’re not just about avoiding allergies; they’re also about embracing nutrition.
Making It Fun
Introducing new foods should be fun! Mix peanut butter powder in smashed banana, oatmeal, or yogurt or spread it on a small piece of toast. Eggs can be scrambled soft or made into a tiny omelet. The key is to make these foods part of regular meals, exploring new flavors and textures together.
Consult Your Pediatrician
This should be part of the discussion about your baby at the four-month well visit; if not, bring it up!
If you have an older child with food allergies, have this discussion with your child’s pediatrician or allergist while you are pregnant!
Remember, each infant is unique, and while introducing allergens early can benefit many, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Your pediatrician can help tailor an introduction plan that suits your baby best.
Wrapping It Up
Introducing your baby to foods like peanuts and eggs early can seem daunting, but it’s a journey that can lead to a lifetime free of food anxieties. I like to joke with parents in the exam room and caution, “Don’t start with Pad Thai!” but with careful planning and a sprinkle of fun, you can help lay the foundation for a healthy, happy eating future for your little one. So, go ahead, pass the peanuts (and the eggs)! Your baby’s immune system—and their taste buds—will thank you.
Last piece of advice – NO RAW NUTS OR CHUNKY NUT BUTTERS UNTIL AFTER AGE 5! IT’S A CHOKING HAZARD.
Dr. Nikki Gorman is the owner and pediatrician at Village Pediatrics in Westport, CT. She loves spreading medical information and helping parents and children make informed decisions about their health and wellness. If you see her out, she likes hugs!
