Foods causing Adverse Reactions

Some foods cause adverse reactions initially when they are introduced. Such foods should be avoided in the first 6 months and then gradually started. In cases where there is a family history of allergy, then such foods should be completely avoided. Here is a guide on which foods to avoid.The digestive system of small babies is under the process of development. Therefore, introduction of any new food time may cause adverse reactions in them. As such, it is important for parents to make a note of such foods and what they can do in such situations. In this articleWhich foods could cause adverse reactions when they are first introduced?DiarrhoeaEczemaBotulismHivesOther Types of ReactionsHow to prevent food allergies in babies?Which foods could cause adverse reactions when they are first introduced?In families with history of allergy (asthma, eczema) foods such as artificial milk, egg, cocoa preparations (like chocolate), juices and wheat preparations are likely to cause allergies in children. Therefore, avoid these foods at least until the completion of 6 months. In cases where there is a strong family history of allergy, it may be advisable to avoid all foods other than breast milk until the age of 6 months.What are types of reactions that can be caused due to food?Here are some of the adverse food reactions that can be observed in babies when solids are introduced.DiarrhoeaDiarrhoea is one of the common food reactions in children. Excessive intake fruits having heat inducing properties and fruits that help in constipation can cause diarrhoea. For example, fruits like prunes, pears, plums, peaches, dry fruits like raisins and some fruit juices may cause adverse reaction like diarrhoea.EczemaFoods like peanuts, eggs, milk, fish, soy and wheat are main culprits of eczema or atopic dermatitis in babies. When babies are affected by this condition, their skin may become red, itchy and dry.BotulismGiving honey to babies under 1 year of age can cause botulism in them. Honey contains the bacteria Clostridium botulinum which can cause poisoning in babies. This type of reaction can even become life-threatening for babies as their digestive system is still developing. Botulism can also be caused due to foods like green beans, canned tuna fish and mushrooms.HivesHives may look like pale red bumps on skin and may also appear like insect bites. Itching also accompanies with this kind of allergy. Foods like shellfish, milk, peanut, eggs, nuts, etc, can trigger hives in babies. Apart from the foods some preservatives and additives are also known to cause this kind of allergy.Other Types of ReactionsHere is the list of some other reactions in babies that can be caused due to food.Breathing difficultiesDizziness and faintingWheezingCold and coughSore throatSwelling of lipsSwelling of tongueStomach acheBlotting of stomachVomitingSome foods may also cause serious reactions like Anaphylaxis. Therefore, any of the above symptoms is observed, it is a must to consult a doctor immediately. Your doctor is the right person to diagnose and suggest right remedies to deal with such reactions. How to prevent food allergies in babies?Here is how you can prevent food allergies in your baby.If there is a history of food allergies in your family, you must make a note of such foods and prevent giving them to your baby.Do not give any foods containing additives and preservatives to your baby.Breastfeed your baby as much as you can. Adequate breastfeeding can make your baby immune to food allergies.While introducing solids to your baby, introduce one at a time.Introduce the foods that are suspected to cause allergy after your baby turns 6 months old to reduce the risk or allergy. Consult your doctor before adding anything new to your baby’s diet.Different foods causing allergy may start showing reactions at different time in different babies. Usually, some foods start causing reaction within few minutes, some may show within two hours or some may even start showing it after four to six hours. If you suspect any kind of allergy in your baby, you must immediately consult a doctor. It is also important to note that not only foods but also there are various other factors that can cause allergy in babies.