Introducing Solid Foods to Children with Peanut Allergy
There is growing interest in how early, structured introduction relates to allergy prevention, but high-risk children need to be assessed first.
What we know now
Recent research suggests that introducing common allergenic foods such as peanut in a structured way at the right age may help lower the risk of allergy in some infants. But this needs to be tailored to each baby. If a baby already has moderate to severe eczema, has had a rapid reaction to food before, or has a strong family history of allergy, talk to a doctor first. If needed, introduction should happen after assessment in a setting with the right facilities.
General principles for introduction
- Wait until the child can swallow safely and has got used to other solid foods
- Choose a form that suits the child's age: never give whole peanuts or large pieces of nuts to infants and young children, to avoid choking
- Introduce only one new food at a time, start with a small amount, do it during the day, and have someone watch the child
- Keep a record of what was eaten, when, and any reactions afterwards
After a confirmed allergy
Peanut and peanut products must be strictly avoided. Check ingredient lists and watch out for cross-contamination. A doctor or dietitian should plan nutritional substitutes. Talk to the kindergarten or school and prepare an emergency plan. If there is difficulty breathing or a tight throat, call 120 (the emergency number in China) straight away. Whether the child can be reassessed and when to reassess is decided by the doctor.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. If your symptoms affect daily life, please see a doctor.