Food allergies

Posted by Kelly  on April 16, 1999 at 10:12:54
I have a 4 year old with food allergies to corn, eggs and milk.  She gets wheezing and hives when she eats these foods.  I have avoided giving her peanuts because I've heard that she will have less chance of being allergic if I wait to expose her.  How old should she be before she can try them?
Also I hve a 13 month old who has avoided high allergens and been breastfed.  When can I try these foods and wean him?
Thank you.

Posted by HFHS.MD.HSW on April 19, 1999 at 20:36:46
Dear Kelly:
Peanuts are one of the primary food allergens. For a child who has already demonstrated immediate hypersensitivity to corn, eggs, and milk, I would suggest not introducing peanuts into her diet at this time. Even though her skin tests may have not to date documented sensitivity to peanuts, this would not preclude subsequent development of such sensitivity. You are aware she has a decent chance of outgrowing her allergies to the other foods by age ten. Peanuts themselves might be introduced later. The guidance of a pediatric allergist will be invaluable here
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests in its 1998 Pediatric Nutrition Handbook that your son may tolerate the introduction of cow's milk now at thirteen months of age, of eggs at two years of age, and peanuts, tree nuts, and fish at three years of age.
This information is conveyed for educational purposes only. You will need the assistance of your pediatrician and a pediatric allergist to develop meal plans most appropriate for both your daughter and your son.
HFHS.MD.HSW
Key Words: Food allergy