There are currently 14 major allergens . These must be listed in bold in the ingredients of processed foods. Therefore, be sure to check the labels for these allergens .
- gluten (wheat, rye, barley, oats, spelt),
- crustaceans,
- the eggs,
- peanuts,
- the fish,
- soybeans,
- Milk,
- nuts (almonds, hazelnuts…),
- celery,
- mustard,
- sesame,
- sulfites*,
- lupin**,
- molluscs.
On each of our recipes, allergens are indicated before the complete recipe with its ingredients and instructions.
*Sulfites are naturally present in some foods. They are also used as food additives.
**The lupin is a legume.
When should allergens be introduced into a baby's diet?
It is strongly recommended to introduce allergens into the baby's diet from the start of BLW ), regardless of any family history of allergies . Indeed, recent studies have shown that early exposure (before the baby's first birthday) to allergens can reduce the risk of developing food allergies .
How to introduce allergens?
Only ONE at a time and THREE days in a row.
Allergens should be introduced one at a time . This allows you to identify the responsible food in case of an allergic reaction. Also, be sure to follow the three-day rule : offer the allergenic food for three consecutive days. Indeed, at least two exposures to an allergen are necessary before antibodies can trigger a reaction (if one is likely to occur). If, after three days, no reaction has occurred, you can include this food in your baby's regular diet and then test another allergen.
Photo: © Moon and the other
In what quantity should the allergens be introduced?
by introducing very small amounts of an allergen . The goal is for the baby to be exposed to the potential allergen.
You can present the food to the baby on its own, a strip of omelet for example, or mix it with another food (which is not an allergen itself), such as peanut butter mixed with applesauce, for example.
How to recognize an allergic reaction
Generally, an allergic reaction occurs 30 minutes after ingesting a food, but it can also occur hours or days later . So be vigilant.
Here are some signs that indicate an allergic reaction:
- Vomiting, diarrhea
- Sudden change in behavior
- Red patches, hives, eczema
- Asthma
- Swollen throat or lips (difficulty breathing)
If you have any doubts, contact your doctor!
A closer look at some allergies and intolerances
Gluten
Gluten allergy
Gluten allergy is an immune reaction that occurs when the body reacts to gluten proteins, found in certain grains such as wheat, rye, and barley. This can lead to several symptoms:
- Digestive issues (abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating)
- Skin-related (skin rashes, itching)
- Neurological (fatigue, concentration problems)
Gluten-free alternatives for children with allergies
Opt for certified gluten-free cereals (rice, quinoa, millet, buckwheat or oats) and look for gluten-free breads and pastas (which are now widely available in stores and bakeries).
Favor fruits and vegetables , as they are naturally gluten-free and provide a healthy foundation for your baby's diet. Note that legumes (beans, lentils, and chickpeas) are excellent sources of protein and are also gluten-free.
Dairy products like yogurt and cheese are generally gluten-free and can be included in a baby's diet, unless he or she is also allergic to milk, of course.
Gluten intolerance
Gluten intolerance does not trigger an immune response, but it can still cause digestive symptoms. The body has difficulty digesting gluten, and this can lead to:
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Headaches
These symptoms usually occur several hours after consuming gluten.
How can I tell if my baby has a gluten intolerance?
There is no specific test to diagnose gluten intolerance. Diagnosis is often made by exclusion, first ruling out other conditions, such as celiac disease, and observing the improvement of symptoms after eliminating gluten from the diet.
The egg
An egg allergy occurs when the immune system identifies the proteins in egg whites (and sometimes yolks) as a threat. This can cause a range of symptoms, from skin irritations to more severe reactions, such as breathing difficulties or, in some cases, anaphylaxis.
If your baby is allergic to eggs, read labels carefully, as eggs can be hidden in many products, including pastries, sauces, and even some prepared meals. Avoid whole eggs, but also egg-based products such as omelets, soufflés, and meringues.
Egg alternatives for children with allergies
There are several alternatives to eggs that can be used in recipes and meals to ensure adequate nutrition.
The liquid found in cans of chickpeas, called aquafaba , can replace eggs in recipes that call for whipped egg whites , such as meringues or homemade mayonnaise. Three tablespoons of aquafaba replace one whole egg, and two tablespoons of aquafaba replace one egg white.
To replace beaten eggs, often used in baking recipes, you can use a mixture of water and flaxseed flour . This will give you the desired consistency. To replace one egg, mix one tablespoon (15 ml) of flaxseed with two tablespoons (30 ml) of water and let it soak for five minutes. This trick only works for recipes that call for one or two eggs, or a maximum of three.
Used as an egg substitute in cake recipes, applesauce helps bind the ingredients while adding a natural sweetness. For every egg, use one cup of applesauce. This alternative works especially well in muffins .
Banana puree is another sweet alternative that can replace eggs in some recipes. Use one banana for every egg.
In the form of tofu or yogurt, soy is an ingredient that can replace eggs in recipes that call for large quantities . For omelets or mascarpone, firm tofu is a good substitute (with a pinch of turmeric for color). Silken tofu is suitable for recipes that require a raising agent (soufflés) or strong binding properties (mayonnaise, gratins, quiches, etc.). Finally, soy yogurt can replace eggs in recipes that require a raising agent with a high moisture content. Use 50g of tofu to replace 1 egg. However, be aware that soy is also an allergen.
Soybeans
Soy allergy is an allergic reaction that occurs when the immune system identifies certain proteins in soy as harmful substances. This can cause a range of symptoms, from skin irritations to more serious reactions, such as breathing difficulties or, in some cases, anaphylaxis.
If your baby is allergic to soy, read labels carefully, as soy is hidden in many products, including sauces, prepared meals, and meat substitutes. Ingredients like soy lecithin and tofu should also be avoided, as should all products containing soy, until a clear diagnosis has been made.
With its high phytoestrogen content, which can be endocrine disruptors, it is best to avoid soy until the age of 3.
Soy alternatives for children with allergies
Soybeans offer numerous nutritional benefits. They are important in a more plant-based diet that is lower in meat. Other legumes such as lentils , chickpeas , and beans are excellent alternatives, rich in protein and fiber.
If your baby doesn't have a milk allergy, dairy products like yogurt and cheese can be included in their diet. Quinoa and other grains can also provide essential protein and nutrients.
Finally, lean meats such as chicken, turkey, or beef provide essential proteins.
Milk
Cow's milk allergy or CMPA (cow's milk protein allergy)
Milk allergy and cow's milk protein allergy are actually the same thing. When we talk about cow's milk allergy, we are always referring to an immune system reaction to the proteins contained in cow's milk (such as casein and whey).
Cow's milk allergy is one of the most common food allergies in infants and young children. Symptoms may include:
- Digestive problems (vomiting, diarrhea)
- Skin rashes (hives, eczema)
- Breathing difficulties (asthma, wheezing)
- (asthma, wheezing)
- Anaphylactic shock (in severe cases)
Milk allergy should not be confused with lactose intolerance, which is an inability to digest lactose (milk sugar) and which manifests mainly through digestive symptoms, without involvement of the immune system.
Alternatives to cow's milk protein for children with allergies
If a cow's milk protein allergy is confirmed, several alternatives exist to ensure a balanced diet for the baby.
Plant-based milks ( oat milk, rice milk, etc.) fortified with calcium can replace cow's milk. Be careful with almond and soy milk, as each contains one of the 14 major allergens! Also, be aware that lactose-free dairy products are only suitable for those with lactose intolerance, as they still contain milk proteins.
Goat's or sheep's milk , as well as goat's or sheep's cheeses, are generally not recommended for babies with CMPA (cow's milk protein allergy). Although these milks may contain different proteins than cow's milk, they often contain similar proteins, such as casein, and other potential allergens that can trigger allergic reactions in some people. However, sensitivity varies from person to person. Some people allergic to cow's milk may tolerate goat's or sheep's milk, while others will develop allergic symptoms. Therefore, it is important to have tolerance tests performed under medical supervision.
Lactose intolerance
Lactose intolerance is a digestive problem. It occurs when the body does not produce enough lactase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose (the natural sugar in milk).
This can cause digestive symptoms such as:
- Bloating and abdominal discomfort
- Gas and pain after consuming dairy products
- Diarrhea can occur in cases of accumulation of undigested lactose.
Unlike an allergy, lactose intolerance is generally not life-threatening and does not trigger immune reactions. However, limiting lactose in your diet is advisable for greater comfort.
The difference between lactose allergy and lactose intolerance
It's common to confuse cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) with lactose intolerance, simply because they both involve cow's milk. However, the substances responsible are different. The allergy involves milk proteins , while the intolerance affects lactose . Therefore, it's important not to say you're "allergic to lactose," as an allergy is always related to proteins.
Coque fruits
Nut allergy is relatively common , especially in children, but it can persist into adulthood.
Nuts include, among others, almonds, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, cashews, pistachios, etc.
Symptoms of a nut allergy may include:
- Skin reactions (skin rashes, itching or hives)
- Gastrointestinal symptoms (abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Anaphylactic reactions (in severe cases).
If your baby is allergic to nuts, it's best to avoid them completely . Inform those around you to prevent accidental exposure and be vigilant when reading food labels, as nuts can be found in unexpected products. Many energy bars, like granola bars, contain nuts. But that's not all! Cookies, cakes, and breads can be made with nuts, and some sauces and marinades may include nuts as a main ingredient.
Sulfites
Sulfites are chemical compounds used as preservatives to prevent oxidation and extend the shelf life of food products.
Although most people tolerate sulfites without any problems, some people may develop symptoms ranging from mild to severe, such as:
- Skin rashes
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Breathing difficulties or anaphylactic reactions (in extreme cases)
In which foods are sulfites found?
It is important, especially if your baby has never been exposed to sulfites, to take the time to read labels . This will allow you to know if the food or processed product contains sulfites and to avoid it in case of an allergy.
They are present in a variety of foods and beverages, including:
- Dried fruits : dried apricots, raisins, and other dried fruits may contain sulfites to maintain their color and freshness.
- Potato products : frozen fries or instant mashed potatoes may be treated with sulfites.
- Bakery products : some breads and pastries may contain sulfites as preservatives.
- Condiments and sauces : sauces , marinades and some condiments may also contain sulfites.
- Canned vegetables : especially those that are blanched or preserved in sulfite solutions.
- Certain spices , such as garlic powder
And even though it doesn't directly concern babies, it's also important to know that sulfites are present in wines and spirits to stabilize the wine and prevent oxidation. This is especially true for white wines and some red wines.
Alternatives to sulfites for children with allergies
Choose fresh fruits and vegetables rather than dried or canned ones. Also limit processed foods and reduce your consumption of processed potato products, commercial sauces, and pastries.
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