Introducing Allergens: The New Science of Safety

For decades, pediatricians said: "Avoid peanuts until age 3." The result? Peanut allergies tripled.

The landmark LEAP Study (Learning Early About Peanut Allergy) changed everything. It proved that introducing allergens early (between 4-11 months) reduces the risk of developing an allergy by up to 80%.

The Big 9 Allergens

These account for 90% of food allergies:

1. Peanut
2. Tree Nuts (Almond, Cashew, Walnut)
3. Egg
4. Cow's Milk (Dairy)
5. Wheat
6. Soy
7. Fish
8. Shellfish
9. Sesame

When to Start

As soon as baby starts solids (around 6 months).

• Note: If your baby has severe eczema or an existing egg allergy, consult an allergist first. They are "High Risk."

How to Introduce Safely

1. One at a Time

Introduce one new allergen at a time. Wait 2-3 days before the next one so you can pinpoint a reaction.

• Day 1: Peanut butter mixed with oatmeal.
• Day 2: Same thing.
• Day 3: Same thing. Success! Now try Egg.

2. Time of Day

Morning is best. Never introduce a completely new allergen at dinner. You want to be awake to watch for a reaction for at least 2 hours.

3. Preparation (Choking Safety)

• Peanut/Nut Butters: NEVER give a spoonful of nut butter (choking hazard). Thin it out with water, breastmilk, or mix into yogurt/oatmeal.
• Eggs: Scrambled well or hard-boiled and mashed.
• Dairy: Greek yogurt or shredded cheese. (No liquid cow's milk to drink until age 1).

What a Reaction Looks Like

Most reactions happen within minutes or up to 2 hours.

Mild Reaction

• Hives (red welts) around the mouth or face.
• Red, itchy eyes.
• Mild tummy ache/vomiting.
• Action: Stop the food. Call pediatrician. Give Benadryl/Zyrtec if instructed by doctor.

Severe Reaction (Anaphylaxis) - CALL 911

• Difficulty breathing (wheezing).
• Swelling of tongue or throat.
• Pale/Blue skin.
• Limpness/Unconsciousness.
• Profuse vomiting (whole body heaving).

Consistency is Key

This is the part parents miss. Introducing it once isn't enough. You have to keep it in the diet. "Early and Often." Ideally, feed allergens 2-3 times a week for the first few years of life to train the immune system that these proteins are safe.

Conclusion

Food is fun, but it can be scary. By following the science of Early Introduction, you are actively training your baby's immune system and potentially saving them from a life of carrying an EpiPen.