Preventing Food Allergies in Children: How Dietitian Nutritionists Can Help

Preventing food allergies in children doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, especially when you have the right tools and guidance. The good news? With early allergen introduction and support from a dietitian nutritionist, you can significantly lower the risks and set your baby up for a lifetime of healthy eating. In this blog, we’ll break down practical tips for preventing food allergies and explore how dietitian nutritionists can make this process smoother for parents.

Understanding Food Allergies

What Are Food Allergies?

Food allergies occur when your baby’s immune system treats a harmless food as a threat, triggering reactions like itching, hives, or even severe anaphylaxis. The key to managing and preventing food allergies is recognizing the risks early and taking action.

Common Food Allergens to Watch For

When introducing solid foods to your baby, it’s helpful to know which foods are more likely to cause allergic reactions. These include:

1. Peanuts
2. Tree nuts (like almonds and cashews)
3. Milk and dairy products
4. Eggs
5. Soy
6. Wheat
7. Fish and shellfish
8. Sesame

Safely introducing these foods at the right time can play a big role in preventing food allergies in children.

Signs of Food Allergies

It’s important to watch for signs of food allergies as you introduce new foods:

• Skin reactions: Hives, redness, or swelling.
• Digestive issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach pain.
• Respiratory problems: Wheezing, coughing, or difficulty breathing.
• Severe reactions: Difficulty breathing, throat swelling, or a sudden drop in blood pressure.

If your baby shows any of these signs, stop feeding the food and consult your pediatrician immediately.

What Increases the Risk of Food Allergies?

Every baby is unique, but here are some common risk factors for food allergies:

• Family History: If you or close family members have allergies, eczema, or asthma, your baby may have a higher risk.
• Eczema: Babies with eczema are more likely to develop food allergies. Managing their skin health is crucial.
• Environmental Factors: Smoke, pollution, and household chemicals can weaken the immune system.
• Vitamin D Deficiency: Low vitamin D levels during pregnancy and infancy may increase the likelihood of allergies.
• Antibiotic Use: Overusing antibiotics can disrupt gut bacteria, which impacts immune system development.

How to Prevent Food Allergies in Children

The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology recommends early allergen introduction and a diverse diet as effective methods for preventing food allergies in children. Here’s what you can do:

Mom's Nutrition During Pregnancy

• Eat a Variety of Foods: There’s no need to avoid allergenic foods like peanuts or eggs unless you’re allergic. A balanced diet is key to your baby’s development. 
• Choose Whole Foods: Fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats should make up most of your diet. Try to limit processed foods when possible.

Nutrition for Baby After Birth

• Breastfeeding: Breastmilk provides vital nutrients and antibodies that support your baby’s immune system. There’s no need to avoid allergens unless you’re allergic.
• Formula Feeding: If breastfeeding isn’t possible, standard infant formula is a healthy alternative.

Introducing Solid Foods to Baby Safely

Starting solids is an exciting milestone for your baby -- and a critical step in food allergy prevention.

When to Start Solids

Most babies are ready for solids between 4–6 months. Look for signs like sitting up with support and showing interest in food.

How to Introduce Allergens 

Start with small amounts of allergenic foods, like peanut butter or scrambled eggs. Wait a few days before trying a new allergen to monitor for any reactions.

Regular Exposure of Allergens

Once a food is introduced without issues, continue offering it regularly to maintain tolerance.

Consult Your Pediatrician

If your baby has eczema or a family history of allergies, consult your pediatrician or a dietitian nutritionist for guidance.

How Dietitian Nutritionists Can Help Prevent Food Allergies

A dietitian nutritionist is your go-to partner for preventing food allergies in children. Here’s how they support you:

1. Personalized Feeding Plans: They’ll help create a feeding plan tailored to your baby’s specific needs.
2. Evidence-Based Guidance: Dietitians stay up-to-date with the latest research on food allergy prevention.
3. Monitoring Progress: Regular check-ins ensure everything is going smoothly, and plans can be adjusted if needed.
4. Parent Education: Learn how to safely introduce allergens, identify symptoms, and maintain a balanced diet.
5. Collaborative Care: Dietitians work closely with your pediatrician to provide a team-based approach to your child’s health.

Introducing MyorThrive: Your Partner in Pediatric Nutrition

At MyorThrive, we specialize in pediatric and maternal nutrition, providing proactive support for preventing food allergies in children, covered by insurance. Our groundbreaking food allergy prevention program provides you and your baby with 1:1 personalized food allergy prevention sessions, complemented by a TON of educational material to help you keep your baby allergy-free.

Why Choose MyorThrive?

• Expert Dietitians: Our team includes Registered Dietitian Nutritionists trained in allergy prevention and pediatric nutrition.
• Innovative Tools: We use the MyorCare allergy prediction solution to help identify allergy risks.
• Accessible Care: We are in-network with most major insurers, including Aetna, Cigna, United Health, BlueCross BlueShield, Anthem, Humana and Tricare so families can focus on their child’s health without worrying about costs.

Final Thoughts from our Cofounder & Registered Dietitian, Katie Thomson MS, RDN

Preventing food allergies in children is possible with the right approach. By introducing allergens early, maintaining a diverse diet, and seeking guidance from a dietitian nutritionist, you can reduce risks and set your baby up for a lifetime of healthy eating.

Take the first step today—visit MyorThrive.com to get started on your baby’s allergy prevention journey. Let’s make mealtimes safe, happy, and stress-free!

Disclaimer: Square Baby meals may be a complement to your overall Allergen Introduction offering. They are not intended or guaranteed to treat, cure, or prevent disease or reactions. Speak with your pediatrician, dietitian, or allergist about introducing allergens to your baby, including specific dosages and feeding routines.