Food Allergies and Intolerances in Children: Symptoms, Prevention, and When to Introduce Solids

Introducing your baby to solids is one of the most exciting milestones in early parenthood. But for many parents, the thought of food allergies or food intolerances can feel scary.

The good news? With the right information, you can recognize the signs, know when to introduce solids, and even help reduce your child’s risk of developing peanut allergies.

What’s the Difference Between a Food Allergy and Food Intolerance?

Food Allergy

A food allergy occurs when your child’s immune system mistakes certain proteins in food as harmful. Symptoms usually appear within minutes and can be life-threatening.

Common symptoms include:

• Itching or tingling in the mouth

• Hives, wheezing, or nasal congestion

• Vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain

• Dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness

Severe reactions (anaphylaxis) may cause:

• Swollen throat or tongue

• Trouble breathing

• Drop in blood pressure

• Rapid pulse

If your child shows symptoms of anaphylaxis, seek emergency medical treatment immediately.

Most common food allergens in children: Peanuts, tree nuts, cow’s milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.

Food Intolerance

A food intolerance, sometimes called food sensitivity, affects digestion—not the immune system. It’s uncomfortable but not dangerous.

Common symptoms include:

• Bloating, gas, and upset stomach

• Diarrhea or heartburn

• Nausea or migraines

Typical intolerances include: lactose, gluten, wheat, and caffeine.

Quick Tip: If your child experiences frequent stomach upset after eating, keep a food diary and share it with your pediatrician.

Can my Baby have Yogurt?

Can my Baby have Eggs?

When Should You Introduce Solid Foods?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends starting solids between 4–6 months. (Once your baby can sit with support and hold their head up).

Best first foods:

• Infant cereals

• Pureed meats

• Pureed fruits and vegetables

How to introduce foods safely:

• Start with one new food at a time

• Wait 3–5 days before introducing another

• Watch closely for any reaction

Foods to Avoid for Babies Under 2

To prevent choking, avoid:

• Gum, popcorn, whole nuts, or meat sticks

• Whole grapes or cherry tomatoes (unless quartered)

• Raw hard veggies like carrots or celery

• Hard candies or large chunks of cheese/hot dog

• Seeds or olives

Safety Tip: Always cut food into small, manageable pieces and supervise your baby during meals.

Early Peanut Introduction: What the Research Says

For years, parents were told to delay peanuts. Today, research shows the opposite: early introduction helps prevent peanut allergies.

• The LEAP Study found that high-risk infants who ate peanut foods early (4–10 months) were 80% less likely to develop peanut allergies by age 5.

• Follow-up studies like LEAP-On and recent data in NEJM Evidence confirm the protection lasts into adolescence.

Babies introduced to peanut foods early and regularly had up to a 71% lower risk of developing peanut allergies.

How to Safely Introduce Peanut Foods

According to FoodAllergy.org:

• Low-risk infants (no eczema/egg allergy): Introduce peanut foods freely around 6 months.

• Moderate-risk infants (mild eczema): Introduce around 6 months at home or in your pediatrician’s office.

• High-risk infants (severe eczema or egg allergy): Talk to your doctor about allergy testing. If safe, introduce peanut under supervision as early as 4–6 months.

Safe forms of peanut for babies:

• Smooth peanut butter thinned with warm water, breast milk, or formula

• Peanut powder mixed into puree

• Peanut puffs softened with water or milk

Never give whole peanuts or chunky peanut butter to babies—it’s a choking hazard.

FAQs About Food Allergies and Babies

1. What’s the difference between food allergy and food intolerance?

• Allergies involve the immune system and can be life-threatening.

• Intolerances affect digestion and cause discomfort but are not dangerous.

2. When should I introduce eggs or other allergens? You can introduce eggs, dairy, and other common allergens around the same time as other solids (4–6 months). Introduce one at a time and watch for symptoms.

3. My baby has eczema. Does that mean they’ll have food allergies? Not always, but babies with severe eczema are at higher risk. Discuss early introduction with your pediatrician.

4. How often should I give peanut once introduced? Aim for 2–3 times per week to maintain tolerance.

5. What should I do if I see a reaction? Stop the food immediately. If mild (rash or hives), call your pediatrician. If severe (breathing problems, swelling, dizziness), call 911.

Final Thoughts

Introducing your baby to solids doesn’t have to be stressful. By starting slowly, watching for reactions, and following evidence-based guidelines, you can not only nourish your child but also help reduce their risk of developing food allergies.

Every baby is different, so always talk with your pediatrician before introducing high-risk foods—especially peanuts, eggs, and dairy.

Parent Takeaway: Don’t delay. Early, safe introduction of peanut and other allergens may help protect your child for life.