What are signs of an allergic reaction?
After you introduce a new food, watch your baby during the waiting period for any signs of allergies. Keep in mind that incidence of serious food allergies are rare in healthy children—especially in those for whom solid food introduction occurs after 6 months of age. But it is important that you be alert for signs of allergies (particularly those that my run in the family) so that you can react immediately and consult your pediatrician if necessary. Allergic symptoms most commonly occur in the digestive tract, respiratory system, and the skin. They range from mild to severe and can include*: • Nausea • Vomiting • Gas • Diarrhea • Frequent stools • Abdominal pain • Bed wetting • Cough • Wheezing • Breathing difficulty • Asthma • Runny nose • Eye swelling • Lip swelling • Facial swelling • Rash • Diaper rash • Hives • Itching • Eczema • Mouth ulcers • Headache • Irritability • Fatigue • Behavior problems *Adapted from Ruth Yaron, Super Baby Food, page 30.
